Leeds United kickstarted their 2020/21 Premier League campaign in a rather unfortunate manner, falling to English champions Liverpool by a late goal. It was one of the most entertaining games in the league in recent memory, and the Reds had to rely on a late penalty from Mohamed Salah to secure a narrow 4-3 victory.
In this article, we will talk about three key talking points from Leeds United’s defeat to Liverpool.
New Signings Disappoint
Marcelo Bielsa will be disappointed by the performances of some of the players against Liverpool, none more so than new signing Robin Koch.
Signed from SC Freiburg in the summer, the German international endured a disastrous Premier League debut as he conceded a penalty within the first three minutes, which was converted by Salah for the Liverpool opener. Koch was also culpable for the second goal as he failed to keep up with Virgil van Dijk.
It was a miserable defensive display, and Leeds United had definitely missed the quality of someone like Ben White.
However, Koch wasn’t the only debutant to disappoint, as record signing Rodrigo came on during the final phase of the game, only to concede a late penalty and hand over all three points to the Reds.
Such classless display from these two new signings doesn’t bode well, not only for the club but also for the players, whose confidence will be shattered and they may take some time settling in at Elland Road.
Kalvin Phillips Shows His Premier League Quality
While Koch failed to make an impact in his Premier League debut, Kalvin Phillips emerged as one of the best players on the pitch.
Fresh from making his debut for the England national team during the international break, the Leeds United holding midfielder ran the show in the middle of the park. His brilliant range of passing, in particular, offered endless counter-attacking possibilities for his team, with the player notably grabbing an assist for the Jack Harrison equaliser.
Leeds United Need More Experience
Leeds United showed remarkable courage, determination and fighting spirit despite falling to Liverpool. But one thing that was definitely missing was the experience at the highest level of football.
It was clearly evident in the performances of some of the players including Stuart Dallas and Illan Meslier. Even Patrick Bamford missed an opportunity, lacking composure.
While it will take time for the Leeds United players to integrate themselves into this higher brand of football, they must do it sooner rather than later if the Whites are to have any hopes of surviving in the top-flight.
