'Leeds ain't that good' - Controversial pundit claims he does not 'bow at the temple' of Marcelo Bielsa

Outspoken talkSPORT pundit Simon Jordan has claimed that he does not “bow at the temple” of Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa.
Marcelo Bielsa, Manager of Leeds United (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)Marcelo Bielsa, Manager of Leeds United (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Marcelo Bielsa, Manager of Leeds United (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

The Argentine has had a transformative effect in Yorkshire since taking over at the club in 2018, and has been widely revered by his peers and pundits alike for his relentless style of play and meticulous tactical preparation.

The Whites have, for the most part, been able to continue their positive progression under Bielsa since making their long-awaited return to the Premier League this season, but were soundly beaten 4-1 by Leicester City at Elland Road on Monday evening.

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Reflecting on that sobering result, former Crystal Palace chairman Jordan suggested that while he believes the South American is a top manager, he is also of the opinion that both he and his side are somewhat over-hyped.

Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “We speak about Bielsa at Leeds because Leeds are this huge club who have been in the doldrums for 16 years – Bielsa’s come in and woken them all up.

"I’m not a Bielsa acolyte, I think he’s a great coach. I don’t bow at the temple of Bielsa like all the other managers seem to do like Pep Guardiola or Mauricio Pochettino or whoever else it is currently eulogising this guy.

“I don’t see that result as a surprise. Why is that a surprise?

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“Elland Road is not a fortress because no fans are there, Leeds are a promoted side and Leicester are an established bona fide top six Premier League contending side.

Brendan Rodgers is an elite manager, why would that result be a surprise to people? Leeds ain’t that good!”