Simon Grayson blown away by what Pascal Struijk did in Leeds United win v Watford
Simon Grayson was blown away by what Pascal Struijk did as Leeds United beat Watford on Tuesday 22 October.
Wearing the captain’s armband in Ethan Ampadu’s absence, the 25-year-old led the Whites to a 2-1 victory over the Hornets in the Championship at Elland Road.
Impressed by the Dutchman’s performance, Grayson said he produced “a captain’s performance” at the back for Daniel Farke’s side.
Speaking on BBC Radio Leeds after the game (22 October), Grayson said: “[Struijk] had a good captain’s performance again.
“He was really strong and powerful, made some good blocks in the end there.
“He was winning his headers and he was getting free-kicks.
“A captain’s performance from him, showing his leadership skills, his strength and his power.”
Pascal Struijk impresses for Leeds United again
It has become commonplace for Struijk to produce impressive performances for Leeds United, with the centre-back looking mostly faultless since returning from injury.
The former Ajax man was colossal in the team’s 2-0 win against Sheffield United on Friday (18 October) and continued his good form on Tuesday.
Although he could have done better for Kwadwo Baah’s goal, he was strong in defence and played an important role in Largie Ramazani’s opening goal, playing a splendid long ball to Junior Firpo, who then grabbed the assist.
Struijk completed 59 of his 67 passes – the most in the game – with 88 per cent accuracy of which eight were played into the final third, according to FotMob.
He made three interceptions and recoveries each, while also making five clearances. He also won eight of his 12 duels, including four in the air.
Struijk will now be hopeful of taking his form to Bristol City on Saturday (26 October).
In other Leeds United news, Stuart Dallas has been gushing over this Whites star, dubbing him ‘tremendous’.
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