Leeds’ best efforts proved not to be enough on Wednesday evening as Manchester City, and Leeds-born Erling Haaland, saw off the challenge of Jesse Marsch’s side at Elland Road. Two goals for the Norwegian, after a Rodri opener did the damage on the night, rendering Pascal Struijk’s second half header a mere consolation.
YEP chief football writer Graham Smyth has offered his thoughts on each of the Whites’ 16 players to have featured this evening, portioning out two eights and one four in his post-match player rating gallery.
7. Adam Forshaw - 5
Some tidy moments but couldn't give Leeds any semblance of control. (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: OLI SCARFF
8. Sam Greenwood - 6
A good shift in the first half, lots of pressing and some good choices on the ball. Some good attacking moments in the second half. (Picture Bruce Rollinson) Photo: Bruce Rollinson
9. Brenden Aaronson - 7
Lively when he got the chance to get on the ball. Took players on, drove Leeds upfield, pressed with intensity. (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: OLI SCARFF
10. Rodrigo - 5
Didn't get into the game, made a couple of strange decisions in possession. Plenty of running and pressing. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) Photo: Stu Forster
11. Willy Gnonto - 8
Caused problems when he ran at defenders, drew contact to win free-kicks, Leeds' best attacker and well worthy of the starting place. (Picture Bruce Rollinson) Photo: Bruce Rollinson
12. Joe Gelhardt - 6
Lots of effort, almost a goal. It's not really falling for him this season but he's plugging away (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Photo: Jan Kruger