With a clash against fellow Premier League new boys Fulham on Friday night, Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has got some very big calls to make over his team selection.
The Argentine made the decision to bring Gjanni Alioski back into the starting line-up against Chelsea after bringing him on as a substitute at half-time in the 2-0 defeat to West Ham the game prior.
But, the 29-year-old delivered a largely forgettable display against Thomas Tuchel’s side, with his 6.6 match rating as per Sofascore being the lowest of any Leeds starter, so he let his manager down, after he’d brought him back into the side.
Should Alioski be dropped vs Fulham?
Yes!
No!
He was dribbled past three times on the day, with only Stuart Dallas being bypassed more by a Chelsea player. Alioski also struggled to keep hold of the ball, losing possession on 16 occasions, with only two other Leeds teammates conceding more.
Speaking on BBC Radio Leeds, former Whites striker Noel Whelan slammed Alioski for his performance at Elland Road, saying: “Leeds need a natural full-back there that you know can cover most bases, definitely defensively because as much as he gives everything, he is a liability. He’s not the best of defenders.
“I think that’s why you could see a lot going down that left-hand side, really targeting Alioski and you saw that frailty there at times.”
With Fulham just beginning to show signs of life in recent weeks – they beat champions Liverpool at Anfield earlier this month – Leeds will need to ensure they’re defensively sound when they make the trip to face the Cottagers.
It’s exactly why the £55k-a-week earning Alioski should be dropped from the side to face Fulham on Friday night.
Meanwhile, Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa should urge a move for this Premier League star…