Charlie Cresswell passes Leeds United audition for West Ham game
Charlie Cresswell’s performance for Leeds United against Fulham on Tuesday night came at the opportune time.
Given the Whites’ injury crisis in defence, the 19-year-old could be looked at by Marcelo Bielsa as a possible option for this one.
The Argentine will be without the services of Robin Koch and Diego Llorente for this one while Luke Ayling also continues to remain a doubt.
Thus, having someone like Cresswell, who proved that he can handle the pressure of starting a game at centre-back will have come as a huge boost for the Argentine.
Against Fulham, the Englishman put out a defensive clinic along with a tidy customer on the ball.
He recorded the most number of touches of any player on the pitch (121), which is staggering given that Kalvin Phillips was his defensive partner.
Many expected him to contribute a great deal in the Leeds build-up play, but it was Cresswell who stepped up to the task.
He also completed the most number of passes – 87 from an attempted 104 – showing just how active he was all game, averaging almost a pass per minute.
Aerially too, Cresswell was impeccable, winning 11 duels – another game high.
Given Leeds’ incapability of defending set pieces, deploying the six-foot teenage sensation could be a masterstroke from Bielsa.
Liam Cooper could partner the 19-year-old with Kalvin Phillips moving into a more accustomed deep-lying midfield position.
It remains to be seen how this one pans out but we’re certainly keeping a keen eye on the progress of Cresswell.
In other Leeds United news, journo shared what Fulham fans did to Joe Gelhardt in Leeds win on Tuesday