Leeds United have been enjoying a fruitful season in the Sky Bet Championship this season. There is a wave of optimism prevailing at the Elland Road with respect to a promotion back to the Premier League and the courtesy for such jovial scenes could be obliged to how Garry Monk has marshalled his troops and the way his men have responded to the cause of their side.
Although Chris Wood has been bagging most of the honours for banging goals left right and centre for Leeds United, the credit that should be given to someone like Ronaldo Vieira is unattended to a significant extent. The 18-year-old is undergoing a decent season with the Peacocks, having accumulated 29 appearances for them and being very productive more often than not.
The central defensive midfielder has scored 1 goal but it is his defensive solidity which deserves a special mention. He has made 2.1 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 1 dribble and 0.6 blocks per game on an average and has cushioned the backline meticulously. Made of stern and rigid stuff from head to toe, Vieira has shown spectacular performances for his side and considering his age, he is only likely to get better in due course of time.
The Guinea-Bissau-born midfielder is simply monstrous and an impeccable holder in the middle of the park. With physical strength and pace being his key assets, Vieira breaks down opponents’ attack with relative ease, creates momentum for his side in surging forward and is arguably one of the next big things to emerge from the second tier of English football. Moreover, he is consistent and involves himself to ensure that he leaves no blade of grass uncovered with his relentless toil throughout the pitch.
Leeds United boast of one of the tight defences in the league and Vieira has made his share of contribution to erect a monumental defensive set up by the former Swansea City boss. He is always itchy to regain possession and one of the reasons for the West Yorkshire based club’s stupendous attacking flamboyance could be traced to the attributes which he has put on display.
Leeds United would have to face the top notch of animosity which Premier League has on offer and it would be important for Monk to create a core team involving this wonder kid. In the right environment, he is seemingly likely to thrive in such an outstanding manner in years to come, irrespective of whether Leeds United get promoted or not.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
