'They have great integrity' - Leceister City boss Brendan Rodgers on Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds United, respect and treatment of referees
Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers has put on record his admiration for the 'respect' and 'integrity' with which Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds United side play the game.
Speaking ahead of the Whites' visit to the King Power Stadium on Sunday, Rodgers also expressed appreciation for Leeds' treatment of referees.
Preparing to face Bielsa's men, for the second time this season, has been a task the Foxes' boss has relished.
Last time they met, at Elland Road, Leicester were 4-1 winners and picked Leeds apart on the counter attack, but Rodgers remains a fan of Bielsa's attacking philosophy.
“It’s really enjoyable," he said.
"They were coming off the back of some great results the last time we played them. Marcelo’s teams always play an exciting brand of football, and it’s a style you don’t usually see in the Premier League."
Leicester currently sit third in the Premier League, two points off the top and have caused a surprise or two this season. So too have newly promoted Leeds, who sit 12th and 13 points clear of the drop zone.
Rodgers has been impressed with what they've achieved in their first season back in the top flight for 16 years.
“They’ve been outstanding," he said.
"I’m a huge admirer of the coach. The team have played very clearly in their way in every game. They want to attack, they play without any fear. That’s got them some good results, and some games where they have lost heavily.”
It's not only the way Leeds play with the ball that has caught Rodgers' eye, but the manner in which they conduct themselves, even if decisions go against them.
"I’m a big admirer of Bielsa and the job he has done.," he said.
"They play in a respectful way. They don’t argue with referees so much. They have great integrity in the game. I’ve enjoyed watching them and preparing to play against them."