"He chooses to live" - Marcelo Bielsa on respect for Slaven Bilic following Leeds United's draw with West Brom

Marcelo Bielsa has called Slaven Bilic a "great manager" and revealed his respect for the West Brom head coach.

The Leeds United boss saw his side battle back to a 1-1 draw with the Baggies on New Year's Day as the points were shared at the Hawthorns in a top-of-the-table clash.

United remained at the summit of the Championship on goal difference alone ahead of their counterparts following a thrilling encounter.

Bielsa and Bilic could be seen in a warm embrace at the full-time whistle as the pair exchanged a hug and words after the game's conclusion.

The Baggies manager spoke glowingly of the Argentine in his post-match press conference, with Bielsa echoing the respect shown as the promotion race begins to hot up.

"I know his history," Bielsa said.

"I know his human position that he chooses to live. I respect him. I know he is a great manager. When someone competes with someone like him then it's satisfactory.

"Even if you win or you lose, when you compete with people that have good intentions, it's something that we have to celebrate and that makes me happy."

Bilic earlier said of his fellow head coach: "I rate myself and I am a confident guy but Bielsa is Bielsa.

"It’a privilege to compete with him and to talk football with him, especially when you feel it’s a two-way thing.

"He’s an unbelievable guy. It’s great to have him in the league."