Deeney stated on Sky Sports Main Event [2 February, 20:56] that he would want to see a man of his size take that one touch and score. “That’s terrible, and the defender is lucky.”
While Jermaine Beckford described the challenge as “a penalty all day long,” host David Prutton described it as “reckless.”
Leeds see off Bristol City
Despite Tanner’s obvious knockout of Rutter, referee Stephen Martin chose not to award a penalty.Daniel Farke must have been silently thinking at that point if this may be a game-changing moment.
Even though Leeds was winning, they were unable to take any chances before the half.
But Gnonto’s goal, which turned out to be the game-winning goal, came less than two minutes after the restart, giving Leeds their fifth consecutive league victory.
Daniel Farke would have been incensed at the referees if Gnonto had not scored when he did and Bristol City had stolen a goal.
Leeds are not letting it stop them, even though the quality of officiating in the Championship this season looks to be at an all-time low.
Bravo to each and every player for finishing the job and moving the Whites up to second position, even if it was just for the night.
In related news:
Bamford declared that he will not be returning or agreeing to a new deal that would keep him at Elland Road. In fact, Ayling has officially departed the team, and it seems likely that he will make the permanent move to Boro.
The loss of the £500k player wasn’t that great. He wasn’t having fun. After playing a key role in our first season in the Premier League and his promotion, his form had declined. However, it has a really powerful voice.
On his podcast, My Mate’s A Footballer, Bamford was asked about the behind-the-scenes situation at Leeds following the departure of Ayling, a voice and off-field presence. Bamford described it as “weird.”
“It’s strange, different because you didn’t have Bill doing his normal geeing players up before a game. When we go out, it’s fine. The person who is loud in the changing room, is not necessarily the captain.”
Patrick Bamford on what it is like at Leeds without Luke Ayling
Ayling’s passing would always leave a hole. However, Leeds has other players who can step up off the pitch, and they will need to, particularly because Stuart Dallas and Liam Cooper’s contracts expire in June.
This season, Ethan Ampadu and Pascal Struijk have worn the armband; they will need to step up. As one of the more experienced players on the team, Bamford will also sign a permanent contract if Joe Rodon does.
