Saturday’s draw against AC Milan saw Leeds United end their pre-season campaign unbeaten with two wins and three draws, as Anton Stach cancelled out Santiago Gimenez’s opener.
A solid display against one of Europe’s biggest clubs saw Daniel Farke’s men actually dominate periods of the match. Stach’s goal was a moment of genius and proof of why Leeds have spent £19.9m to sign Stach.
But there were other elements that will have impressed Farke, while some will have concerned him. Isaac Schmidt was often caught on Leeds’ right and a lack of striker was evident against the Milan defence.
Below, are five things we learned from Leeds’ draw with Milan, with only eight days left before Leeds begin their Premier League campaign with the welcome of David Moyes’ Everton at Elland Road.
Five things learned as Leeds draw with AC Milan in Dublin
Anton Stach easily the best player on the pitch
When Leeds confirmed the signing of a 6ft 4in midfielder, many thought he was going to be a bit of an enforcer. Stach is that, winning duels and clearing corners with his head during Saturday’s friendly.
But also, Stach has the technique of a 5ft 8in playmaker. The German can do a bit of everything and to impress to the level he did against an AC Milan side, shows Stach is going to be a bargain at just £19.9m.
Anton Stach in action for Leeds against AC Milan.
Photo by Tim Clayton/Getty Images
Gabriel Gudmundsson finally replaces Charlie Taylor
It is difficult to think of a left-back who has been both solid and adds to the attack in the last decade at Leeds. Junior Firpo was sensational going forward, but was found out defensively in the Premier League.
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The same with Gjanni Alioski. Stuart Dallas also, proving to be much better in midfield. Since Charlie Taylor, Leeds have lacked a left-back who is good both defensively and going forward, perhaps until now.
Gudmundsson was superb against Milan. Not only did he contribute well in the final third and contribute in attack, but he got back well and was resolute on the left. At £10m, Gudmundsson looks a superb buy.
Charlie Taylor during his Leeds United days.
Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images
There’s still a part to play for Ilia Gruev
When Leeds announced the signings of Stach and Sean Longstaff, many believed Ilia Gruev would be the club’s fifth-choice midfielder and may look for pastures new. Especially, after Gruev’s Bulgaria comments.
But Gruev has played more minutes than most during pre-season and is clearly a player Farke knows he can trust. He came on and put in a good shift again against Milan and remains firmly in Farke’s plans.
Isaac Schmidt simply isn’t good enough as a full-back
Ah Schmidt, here we go again. If there were doubts over why Farke wasn’t giving him game time last season, it is clearly evident now. He struggled against Villarreal and was caught out against Milan.
Leeds players celebrate goal v Villarreal.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Their goal came from his side. There is a player in Schmidt. Technically excellent, good going forward. But £4.6m signing Schmidt cannot be trusted as a defender, he simply is not reliable enough in the back line.
Perhaps, the Switzerland international would be much more suited to playing as a wing-back, or even as a winger, where he is not relied upon to defend wholly. Ultimately, Leeds want a replacement for him.
Joel Piroe has been great, but there is a concern
Piroe has been superb in pre-season. Four goals in five appearances, Piroe even won the annual bleep test alongside serial winner Sam Byram. But the concern regarding Piroe remains after his Milan display.
Leeds United striker Joel Piroe during a game against Bristol City.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
The Dutchman is a wonderful finisher, but if he doesn’t score, what else does he really offer? His hold-up play is not good enough. His performance against Milan was a reminder Leeds really need a new striker.