Ethan Ampadu Leeds United
Many players took to the away end of the City ground to thank the fans on Sunday, but the reaction of the fans was one of anger rather than applause as Leeds United suffered their fourth defeat in five games.
Going into the weekend, the team had a chance to get a crucial three points and open the gap away from the relegation zone. But they blew the opportunity in a disappointing display as they were outplayed by Sean Dyche’s team. Despite taking the lead against Forest, the Whites were subpar after that with Daniel Farke to blame for how the team was set up. Leeds registered only one shot in the first half as apposed to the home team’s 10. It was obvious how the game was going to unfold in the second period, with Forest more clinical than in the first as they eventually won out 3-1.
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Farke’s team selection was once again questionable as he continues to prefer a lineup that has failed in recent weeks. This season, the Leeds boss has tinkered a lot with the team, trying to find a solution. The run of games after the September international break gave a bit of hope, but that all disappeared when they suffered a shock defeat to Burnley.
Despite a response at home to West Ham, defeats against Brighton and Forest have Leeds looking over their shoulders at the relegation zone. It’s not just the defeats that have fans worried, but more the manner of them and as Farke continues to deflect from his team’s poor form, arguing that their current path is ‘good’, the pressure is starting to build on the manager. The excuses don’t hide the fact Leeds have lost four in five and the team, and many individuals in it, are underperforming.
Ethan Ampadu among underperforming Leeds United players this season
The Leeds boss has been underwhelming this season, but he is not alone. Some of the club’s best performers from last season have suddenly fallen off a cliff with respect to their performances. Ethan Ampadu is quickly becoming one of them; after his poor display against Nottingham Forest this weekend, questions need to be asked.
Ampadu seemed like the only untouchable player this season; Tanaka and Gruev have had spells on the pitch this season but there is an argument to say that both should be starting over the Leeds skipper. Ampadu is getting sloppy and has not been able to provide the defensive solidity he had last season. On Sunday, Ampadu had arguably his worst showing this campaign; topped off by losing the ball 15 times and failing to stop the cross for Forest’s immediate equaliser. It backed up another poor display from the Welshman against Brighton, with many believing he might be now showing his level.
Time for Daniel Farke to make a change
This season, the Leeds boss has made some bold decisions including playing Brenden Aaronson out wide, and making Dominic Calvert-Lewin the outright starter. Moving Anton Stach into an advanced role was a great call from the German.
Now, Farke has to make a call on Ampadu; it is clear that in recent games he has not been at his best. Fans will be frustrated and argue that their captain should continue in the side. But at this point in the campaign, Leeds need results and should take any risk that could put points on the board.
A midfield three of Sean Longstaff, Ao Tanaka and Anton Stach could be the way to go against Aston Villa. These three provide a bit more dynamism and defensive security than Ampadu in the middle of the park, but perhaps more importantly they have legs. Ampadu has looked sluggish and against a Villa midfield that will include the likes of John McGinn and Morgan Rogers, Leeds will need mobile players in the middle of the park to match them.
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