‘No matter what’ – Alex Bruce tips ‘vital’ Leeds ace to pen new deal at Elland Road
Alex Bruce has tipped Leeds United to offer a new contract to Gaetano Berardi at the end of this season at Elland Road.
The former Whites defender admitted that even if Berardi isn’t playing regularly under Marcelo Bielsa, he can still help the younger players with his experience.
Berardi made his first appearance for the Whites after a long absence against Middlesbrough, and his current deal runs out at the end of the season.
Bruce believes that players of Berardi’s stature are vital at any club and that it wouldn’t surprise him if he was given a new deal.
“Sometimes I don’t think there’s anything wrong with giving players contracts when they get a little bit older, just to have in the dressing room, play a bit-part but be that model professional, that experienced player who can help the younger players,” he told Football Insider.
“These kind of characters are vital to any dressing room and team, no matter what level you play at, these players are vital in the dressing room. If they do give him one, it wouldn’t surprise me, that’s for sure.”
The 31-year-old has made 16 appearances in the Championship, with six of those coming off the bench for the Whites.
Berardi has made a name for himself in West Yorkshire with his ruthless nature and attitude to put his body on the line, and many have called for him to be given a new contract by the club.
In his latest start for the Whites, Berardi was superb against Middlesbrough. He made two tackles, blocks, and clearances at the Riverside, but more importantly, he completed an impressive five interceptions according to WhoScored.
His attitude has been backed up when given a chance by Bielsa, he has turned up and put in a great performance and that backs up Bruce’s claim that he deserves a new deal.
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