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James Justin excelled in defence as Leeds United took a goalless draw from their clash against Liverpool at Anfield.
Whites defender James Justin has issued a beaming verdict of Leeds United’s goalless draw at Liverpool, explaining his team’s plan with a Virgil van Dijk quip.
Justin has had to be patient for gametime since joining the club from Leicester City last summer but the right-back was brought into the team as one of four changes made by Whites boss Daniel Farke for the New Year’s Day clash at Anfield.
The 27-year-old responded by producing a stellar display, one that Justin admitted he enjoyed with huge praise for Liverpool and their capabilities despite this season’s relative struggles.
Speaking post-match to Sky Sports, Justin revealed that Leeds had specifically worked on changing both their tactics and personnel against Liverpool and said United’s players and coaching staff deserved “a pat on the back” for leaving with a point.
The defender also made a quip about how he felt in the closing stages as Arne Slot’s side sent centre-back van Dijk upfront.
“A pat on the back for the management staff”
"It was a good battle and they are a great side obviously,” said Justin.
"They've not been their best this season but you know what quality they have and at any moment they can unlock your defence.
"Today we did a good job collectively so a pat on the back for us.
"There was a lot of emphasis going on in the few days before the game about trying out a different kind of shape with different players and a couple of people who haven't played so much this season filling in and stepping up when needed.
"Luckily today we chose the right tactic and a pat on the back for the management staff."
Asked if it was nervy in the closing stages, Justin admitted: “Definitely. Obviously you know you have got a point and you want to salvage as much as possible and they are throwing everyone forward.
"Van Dijk is coming upfront and you are thinking ‘here we go again’ but it was an enjoyable night under the lights."
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