Callum O'Connell

Sat 16 December 2023 16:58, UK

Leeds United limped to a 1-1 draw with Coventry City at Elland Road after failing to make their chances count in what has become a second straight game without a win for Daniel Farke’s side.

Farke’s men struggled to break down the visiting defence, with Georginio Rutter providing the main moments of inspiration in the first half, although his finishing was wayward and saw the sides head into half-time at 0-0.

Crysencio Summerville eventually gave his side the lead after threatening all game, but they were pegged back by a header from Bobby Thomas and despite plenty of late pressure, couldn’t find a winning goal.

MOT Leeds News ranked the players out of 10 below…

Illan Meslier – 6

Had very little to do in between the sticks for Leeds as the defence dealt with most of the attacks that Blackburn threw their way until the goal, a free header which the keeper could do nothing to prevent.

But having been forced to make just one save in 90 minutes, it’s hard to give a particularly dramatic rating either way for the goalkeeper.

Archie Gray – 5

His passing and control of the game were as composed as ever, particularly for his age, and he wasn’t given much to do defensively, as two clearances were his only defensive actions – 0 interceptions, tackles or blocks.

Having said that, he also lost all of his aerial duels, lost possession nine times and had just a 50% dribble success rate in a disappointing performance. [Sofascore]

Joe Rodon – 7

Much like his centre-back partner, Rodon was imperious at the back and there was nothing he could have done about the goal which seemed to come from nowhere. With three tackles, a 100% ground duel record and a strong passing accuracy, he played well again.

Pascal Struijk – 7

Impeccable in defence for Leeds, he had a 100% success rate for aerial duels and won the vast majority of his ground duels, making three interceptions and a tackle as he proved his worth to this side once again. [Sofascore]

Not a lot he could’ve done about the goal with the ball sailing over his head, and the attacker finding space between him and Gray. Not his man, but perhaps could have done more to put him off a free header.

Djed Spence – 7

Spence put in a much stronger defensive performance than his opposite full-back, with three tackles, two interceptions and one block, and looked to make things happen by overlapping up the wing. His three attempted crosses, two dribbles and even a shot showed how influential he was at both ends in a strong display. [Sofascore]

Ethan Ampadu – 8

One of the most consistent performers in this team, Ampadu is very rarely a disappointment for Farke’s side. His assuredness on the ball, confidence in the tackle and ability to break up play proved vital yet again.

100% long ball accuracy, 100% dribble success, and a 100% duel success rate show just how effective he is at all sides of the game. [Sofascore]

Glen Kamara – 7

Kept things ticking nicely as usual and his progressive passing allowed Leeds to keep on the front foot and pile the pressure on. His final ball may sometimes have been lacking but he was composed and assured on the ball in another good display.

Daniel James – 4

His pace caused issues as it always does for the opposition, but he lacked the cutting edge and accuracy when creating and shooting to really make a difference going forward for Leeds, something which has often been a drawback to his game.

Joel Piroe – 3

Playing in his usual deeper role behind Goerginio Rutter, Piroe was heavily restricted by playing with the defence in front of him, not ever working enough space to cause any real trouble.

His passing was simple and slow rather than the incisive and penetrative passing that would have been needed to break down a well-drilled Blackburn defence. Winning just two of ten attempted duels, it was a poor display all around for the striker.

Cyrsencio Summerville – 8

Took his goal emphatically when Rutter played him through, a confident finish added to his fantastic form so far this season as he continues to show how important he can be to Farke and this team. Not only the goal, but his work at creating chances and forcing the issue for his side stood out again.

Drew plenty of fouls, whether they were awarded or not, in midfield as the opposition attempted to stop him at source – such is the threat he provides going forward.

Goerginio Rutter – 8

While his finishing was wasteful at times, having failed to hit the target with seven of his nine attempts, he posed a constant threat to the backline and never allowed them to settle. His assist for Summerville’s goal capped an impressive display, it’s just a shame he couldn’t find the net himself. [Sofascore]

Subs

Gnonto – 6

Bamford – 5

Gelhardt – 5

In other Leeds United news, a Sky Sports host has made a new Leeds transfer claim.