Leeds United have been in an absolutely rampaging mood of late in the Championship. Their shambolic track record of altering managers as it were a child’s play has also been waived away post the advent of Garry Monk into their setup which has only yielded outstanding results for the Peacocks. With 51 points after 28 outings in the second tier, they are poised in a very comfortable position (third in the League) and are one of the sure-shot contenders for the play-off spots at least.
The former Swansea City boss has implemented sound tactical nous: he has derived maximum utility from all of his frontiers and no wonder why we are seeing jovial faces across the Elland Road. The prospect of getting into the Premier League is as intriguing and thrilling as it can be, though there are still a lot of games to go before the curtains fall. Ensuring that they still possess all the performing assets with them will also hold the key, and one among them is Pontus Jansson.
The Swedish defender, who was acquired from Serie A outfit, Torino, has elevated himself to the stature of a household name amongst the Leeds United faithful on loan with a clause to buy him. It was confirmed that this option got activated when he was stationed by Monk against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday in the Championship fixture, thus meeting the clause which stated that the deal of buying him would be activated after 22 appearances of Jansson.
The 25-year-old has appeared 19 times in the Championship so far this season, during which he has scored 2 goals and created as many chances. Operating from the central defensive slot, he has won 18 tackles with a success rate of 44%, made 31 interceptions, 159 clearances and 26 blocks to ink his name in the starting line up more often than not. It must be mentioned that Monk has utilised him well and we might expect an official confirmation of the deal very soon.
Although he started his career as a striker, the upward trajectory ever since he was slotted at the heart of defence has been intriguingly good. He passes the ball well, is skilful, has always been an aerial threat for the opponents, and has learned the art of defending very quickly and of course, very well. Undoubtedly, he has had quite a galvanising impact for Leeds United and signing him on a permanent basis for around £3 million shouldn’t be an issue, considering the contributions he has made.
Statistics Credits: Squawka.
