Liam Cooper impresses on his return from injury as Leeds United record extended
Leeds United were able to extend their run of clean sheets to four straight Championship games against Watford, largely in part to the influence of the returning Liam Cooper.
Cooper started for the first time since the opening-day draw with Cardiff City, coming into the side in place of Joe Rodon who picked up a red card against Hull City last week.
His return to the side was seamless, stepping into the role as if he had never been missing, and playing a crucial part in Leeds’ solid defensive unit which allowed the attack to push on later in the game.
Against Watford, Leeds only faced four shots and had the majority of the possession in their favour, but the performance of the back line was a huge reason for their ability to dominate the game, particularly while the scoreline remained 0-0.
Cooper played his part massively, making two interceptions and one block, winning four of his five ground duels and four of seven aerial duels, which included attacking the ball in the opposition’s box.
His four clearances and three fouls drawn allowed any build-up of pressure to be eased and his side to regain possession and reset comfortably, providing the foundation for the attacking players to express themselves and continue their onslaught going forward.
On top of this, Cooper displayed confidence on the ball, with 91 touches leading to 80 attempted passes, 93% of which were accurate, including 100% accuracy on long passes, of which he completed three, and he even completed a dribble, bringing the ball out from the back [Sofascore].
It was a very impressive all-round performance from the defender, and you would never have known he’d missed seven games with an injury.
His ability to slot straight into the back line alongside defensive partner Pascal Struijk will have been a great pleasure to Daniel Farke, who can rest assured that his defensive options are all capable of performing to a high standard, easing any worries about a drop in quality after an unexpected absence.
In other Leeds United news, the club were spot on with their call to sell an international player in the summer.