Ethan Ampadu must be given his flowers after achieving a 10-year first for Leeds United
Ethan Ampadu was phenomenal during Leeds United’s 4-1 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday.
The Wales international scored the third of the Whites’ four goals to put them firmly in the driving seat, and helped his side on their way to an emphatic victory at Elland Road.
Brenden Aaronson’s header was flicked through to Ampadu, who poked home past Dean Henderson on the hour.
The result means Leeds have moved six points clear of the relegation zone, and Daniel Farke has overseen a brilliant four-match unbeaten run.
Ampadu’s first league goal for Leeds ended a 10-year milestone, and fans will surely be delighted with how he’s played under Farke this season.
Ethan Ampadu becomes first number four to score for Leeds in over 10 years
Ampadu has been one of Leeds’ most consistent players since joining, with his impact being felt in West Yorkshire.
Having missed three Premier League games at the start of the season due to injury, the 25-year-old’s quality at the base of midfield has been evident in the Premier League.
Ampadu’s goal on Saturday ended a run of 227 consecutive league appearances by a Leeds player wearing the number four shirt without a goal.
The last person to achieve this was Rudy Austin, who scored in February 2015 against Watford.
It’s a stat that seems scarcely believable, but the Welshman’s previous goals for the Whites came in the FA Cup during the 2023-24 season.
After finally getting his moment in front of the Elland Road faithful, the 25-year-old is now undoubtedly the first name on the teamsheet.
Leeds’ spine has become rock solid under Daniel Farke
Few people would have thought Leeds could perform in such a way against high-flying Palace at the start of the month, and a lot of credit must go to the mainstays in the team.
After chopping and changing in early weeks, the back three of Joe Rodon, Jaka Bijol and Pascal Struijk have been excellent.
Not only have they provided stability at the back, but they have also been unstoppable from attacking corners and thrown-ins.
| Games played | 17 |
| Wins | 5 |
| Draws | 4 |
| Losses | 8 |
| Points | 19 |
| Premier League position | 16th |
Lucas Perri is quickly adjusting to the top flight, while Ampadu has been at the heart of everything that’s been good about Leeds.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin finally hitting form, Leeds could aim for much more than just Premier League survival.
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