Leeds United made a fantastic start to the season by winning the first four games out of the five they played, and they were blowing away teams with their refreshing and fluid style of play which is not often seen in the Championship. However, their opposition seems to have adapted well in recent days and United have also not helped their cause by not closing out games from winning situations. Injuries and their inability to finish moves have cost them in the past month. They currently sit on top of the table courtesy of goal difference, but better finishing could have seen them take a sizeable lead at the top of the table by now.
The buildup seems to be there, but it is in the final third that players like Samuel Saiz, Ezgjan Alioksi and Jack Harrison have let down the fans more often than not. We believe there is one such player who is attainable that can solve this issue and it is Wigan Athletic’s Nick Powell.
The attacking midfielder had recently rejected a chance to extend his contract with the Latics, and there are various reports that the player could look for a move away in January. Even the club might have to offload him as January presents them the only chance to make money on him otherwise they run the risk of losing him for free.
Leeds United were even linked with him in the summer after his impressive displays in the League One which got the Latics promoted to the Championship. Last season, he managed 15 goals and 8 assists in all competitions and the former Manchester United man has started this season in blazing fashion as he has scored 4 and assisted 5 in 14 appearances.
On the other hand, someone like Saiz has still not managed a goal in the Championship and has just two assists to show to his name even though United play one of the most attacking brands of football. We can only imagine what numbers would Powell produce in a team who attack so strongly and in numbers.
His ability to play as a centre-forward will also be a big asset for Bielsa, and we believe that Powell is a complete Bielsa kind of player. He likes to play in the pocket of space in between the defensive line and midfielders, and it’s his link-up play and ability to find his team-mates that makes him stand out.
The former Manchester United player is not too shoddy with his finishing and dribbling skills, and we believe this 24-year-old would be a definite upgrade over someone like Saiz who might work hard but often fails to come up with a final product. Bielsa should close his eyes and get this former Premier League winner to Elland Road in January.
