Leeds United saw off the challenge Birmingham City posed on New Year’s Day in comprehensive fashion as Wayne Rooney’s Blues were beaten 3-0 by Daniel Farke’s side. United got back to winning ways after back-to-back losses against Preston North End and West Bromwich Albion to close out 2023.
It was an afternoon in which promotion rivals Ipswich Town and Southampton both dropped points, drawing against Stoke City and Norwich City, respectively.
Here are the YEP’s full-time player ratings from a still-unbeaten Leeds United at Elland Road.
7. Glen Kamara - 8/10
Seemed to be everywhere all at once. So many good contributions to keep Leeds flowing forward or in control of the ball. Photo: Danny Lawson
8. Dan James - 8/10
A goal and an assist, not to mention a fantastic work-rate. Could and should have had more end product though, got in some great positions and was a little wasteful. Photo: Danny Lawson
9. Crysencio Summerville - 8/10
Carried a huge threat again and might well have added to his goal had he been found more often by team-mates. Photo: George Wood
10. Georginio Rutter - 8/10
Once he got into it he started to flourish in a role that allowed him to go just about anywhere. Played some lovely passes. Not everything worked but it was fun. Photo: George Wood
11. Patrick Bamford - 7/10
Got the finish just right for his goal and hit the post with a lovely strike. Some of his work to tee up team-mates could have been tidier in and around the box. Photo: Danny Lawson
12. Ian Poveda - N/A
Given a couple of minutes right at the end. Almost picked up an assist by getting into a good spot to help Ampadu with a one-two. Photo: George Wood