Noel Whelan impressed by performance of Charlie Cresswell against West Ham
Leeds United are still in search of their first Premier League win of 2021-22 after losing 2-1 to West Ham United on Saturday.
Raphinha put the hosts ahead in the first-half, but Junior Firpo’s own goal drew them level before Michail Antonio bagged a late winner.
Despite the defeat, one positive from the game was the debut of Charlie Cresswell.
The 19-year-old English defender was thrown into action, and he did not disappoint, proving himself against the big boys.
Former Leeds United forward Noel Whelan was not happy with how his old side lost, but he was impressed by the display of Cresswell, taking to his personal Twitter account to react after the game.
He said: “I’m gutted for the Leeds team.
“They didn’t deserve to lose that match but football can be a cruel game at times with fine margins.
“Well done to Charlie Cresswell. I thought you were magnificent today.
“We move on and go again. MOT.”
Magnificent is the word
Cresswell came up against Antonio and was brilliant from start to finish.
The youngster did not put in a wrong foot, and Marcelo Bielsa would have been very proud and pleased with his decision.
The Argentine would have been worried heading into the game with Pascal Struijk unavailable for selection due to his three-game ban, and the trio of Diego Llorente, Robin Koch and Luke Ayling out injured.
It appeared Leeds had no depth at the back, but their under-23s skipper stepped up when it mattered the most, and fans are not going to forget his astounding debut anytime soon.
The Whites defender completed most passes (54), made the most touches (80), made most passes in the opposition half (24) and recorded the joint-most clearances (three).
Those stats are akin to the ones the seasoned professionals produce, and the Elland Road outfit have a top player on their hands.
Cresswell deserves more first-team chances going forward, and Bielsa will not be shying away from throwing him into action anytime his services are required.
In other Leeds news, Emma Jones has hit back after Robbie Savage told Whites fans to be worried.