Steph Houghton loves what Leeds United trio managed in Liverpool stalemate
Steph Houghton believes Leeds United’s defence was well protected in the draw against Liverpool on Thursday.
Leeds took a point home from Anfield after a 0-0 draw that displayed the Whites’ defensive resilience at a tough place to go.
Liverpool’s star-studded squad wasn’t able to break Daniel Farke‘s defence, and Leeds almost took the points when Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s goal was ruled out for offside.
The draw has helped Leeds’ hopes of Premier League survival, with Farke’s side now unbeaten in their six games.
Houghton has highlighted the three men in particular who stood out for Leeds during the contest.
Steph Houghton blown away by Leeds’ midfield
Farke has been able to get plenty right for Leeds in recent weeks; however, his change to a 3-5-2 formation seems to have brought out the best in players.
Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach have been mainstays in the Germans’ starting elevens, but due to the busy festive period, Ilia Gruev was handed a start versus the Reds.
The midfield trio put up great numbers against the defending English champions.
- Gruev, Stach and Ampadu made 40 defensive contributions between them
- This included seven tackles
- Leeds’ press almost forced a goal with a long-range effort from Ampadu
While speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day on Thursday, Houghton picked out Gruev, Stach and Ampadu, detailing why they impressed her so much.
Houghton said: “That midfield three of Gruev, Ampadu and Stach have been really impressive protecting their backline.
“Stach and Gruev got the license to go forward when they could, and Ampadu sat in that central area. This midfield three physically outran everyone on the pitch today.“
Despite the dominance of the Whites’ midfield, another man who received an unexpected start deserves his praise too.
James Justin’s impressive numbers vs Liverpool
Farke handed James Justin a rare start at Anfield, as many people who read the starting lineup before the game most likely gasped.
Jayden Bogle was dropped in the right-wing back’s place, and stats show that the Leeds boss’ decision paid off.
Justin was fouled three times and managed to help the Whites get out of tight spaces when under pressure.
He won four ground and aerial duels, and surprisingly was only dribbled past on one occasion.
The 27-year-old made a whopping 10 defensive contributions in total, and is surely in strong contention for another start in Leeds’ next Premier League match against Manchester United.
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