Against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday, Chris Wood’s flamboyance, clinical finishing technique and cunning was put on display once again. The New Zealand international bagged a brace to cut the wings of the Seagulls and having collected 69 points from 38 games in the Championship, Garry Monk’s side are placed 4th on the league table and are well and truly amidst the scheme of things to bag a promotion to the Premier League.
While their resurrection might be traced to Wood’s sheer ruthlessness, Pablo Hernandez’s classy creativity or Pontus Jansson’s solid resilience with the outfielders luring the limelight more often than not, one might mistakenly overlook the contributions which Robert Green has made to the club ever since his move to the Elland Road. The 37-year-old veteran goalkeeper has been extremely reliable under the bar and has plied his trade in every game for the Peacocks this campaign.
Green was brought by Leeds United after the contract confining him to Queens Park Rangers expired at the end of last season. Ever since his entry, he has constructed himself as an irreplaceable element in Monk’s setup and after the Whites’ 2-0 win over Chris Hughton’s outfit, Green has now collected 14 clean sheets from 38 appearances with the gloves and has been proving week in and week out that age is just a number for him.
Maintaining a solid defence has been the cornerstone for Leeds United’s thumping impression under the tutelage of the former Swansea City manager and arguably, it is owing to the safe pair of hands of Green which has been the staunchest contributor.
The former English international has given his consent to stay with the Peacocks for another year and frankly speaking, this activity isn’t anything short of a new signing. With over 600 appearances, Green has been a seasoned campaigner and has had a calming impact on the players.
He commands the back line, makes jaw-dropping saves, has excellent positional sense and his shot-stopping prowess make him a goalkeeper any Championship side would love to have in their ranks.
Green has indeed earned the new contract as he has exerted a notable influence in the mentality of a trouble-prone club like Leeds United. He has been in a fine nick and will be hoping to continue his fine run of form for the remaining fixtures as the league ventures into its business end and irrespective of whether they get promoted or not, the goalie would be a crucial member of their squad once again next season as well.
