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.
13. Jaidon Anthony - 6/10
Some nice link-up play and clever stuff, but when he got to the area he couldn't quite make any more magic happen. Photo: George Wood
14. Joel Piroe - 6/10
A couple of clever touches and bits of play in and around the box. The game was well won by the time he entered. Photo: George Wood
15. Junior Firpo - 8/10
Two assists, plenty of good work on the ball and lots of involvement in the final third. Looked vulnerable defensively on just two occasions in the second half but was otherwise solid. Photo: George Wood
16. Willy Gnonto - 6/10
Got at defenders, drifted around to occupy different positions, gave Birmingham a problem. Photo: George Wood
17. Referee: Keith Stroud - 7/10
There was little to take offence at from the man in the middle. Tried to get on top of time wasting without using cards early, but brought the cards out when challenges were too strong. Photo: Alex Livesey