Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Leeds Live
Leeds Live
Sport
Oliver Jones

Ex-Leeds United star left 'surprised' by Jesse Marsch defensive decision

Former Leeds United and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson has said that he's "surprised" by Leeds boss Jesse Marsch's decision to choose Rasmus Kristensen over Luke Ayling at the weekend.

Ayling returned to the Leeds squad after a knee injury and surgery and has been training up his fitness over the Whites' month-long break between fixtures.

Kristensen started over Ayling against Aston Villa at Elland Road last weekend but was replaced by the Englishman with 22 minutes to play.

READ MORE: Rasmus Kristensen faced with new Leeds United problem after fighting off Luke Ayling for now

Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Robinson questioned the manager's decision-making while highlighting the return of captain Liam Cooper as a major plus for the Yorkshire club.

“Leeds have been defensively poor this season and Liam Cooper is a leader. They needed their captain on the pitch and he performed like one at the weekend.

“I think it’s important he stays fit and stays in the team. It was a good performance with 10 men but it’s not the type of performance the manager would have been looking for.

“Aston Villa are not in great form at the moment, they’re a team that’s struggling. They showed that when they couldn’t break Leeds down but Leeds did defend well – a lot better than they have done previously.

“I’m surprised Luke Ayling didn’t come back into the side but with Liam Cooper coming back in, they looked a more solid unit.”

READ NEXT:

Leeds United are told who would be the 'perfect replacement' for Jack Harrison

Leeds United 'target' Bamba Dieng 'cried with rage' after 'complicated summer' as next steps discussed

Barcelona's Raphinha labelled 'the worst' as ex-Leeds United star slammed by Italian media

Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt aided by Patrick Bamford advice and Liverpool video clips

Ryan Kent future claim made amid past Leeds United interest and looming contract decision

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.