When players head overseas to represent their countries normally it doesn’t really get much press, at Leeds United that is. Maybe one or two head away but it doesn’t always filter back to the fans. This break has been the complete opposite. The Leeds representatives have made a huge mark on the international stage.
Mateusz Klich – Starts against Italy, scores against Republic of Ireland
Klich has had the best of the international breaks most probably because of how hard he’s worked to get back to this stage. At one point he was very much in the plans for Poland but his initial move to Leeds meant he has struggled for a year, to even be considered. Not anymore. He started the 1-1 draw in Italy to kick off the UEFA Nations League campaign and the scored a late equaliser last night to secure a draw against the Republic of Ireland.
Gjanni Alioski – Two in two and top of the group
Alioksi might only have played against smaller nations but that’s because he plays for a nation who is at that level aswell. Alioksi scored two goals, most notably a brilliant volley against Gibraltar to help Macedonia to top place in the group after two games. If they can do the same in the next break they will see themselves qualified for the knockout stages.
Tyler Roberts – Replaces Gareth Bale to make debut, makes a second appearance
Tyler Roberts was having a tough year but all his hard work is beginning to pay off. He replaced one of the worlds best players in Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale as Wales smashed Ireland in a UEFA Nations Qualifier and then appeared off the bench again in the next game. Ryan Giggs has taken over the role as Welsh manager and Roberts seems to be very much part of the plans.
Baily Peacock-Farrell and Stuart Dallas – Debut and a goal
Although Baily peacock-Farrell has played for Northern Ireland in a friendly he made his competitive debut against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the UEFA Nations League. It ended in defeat but it was a sign that he is now the Northern Ireland number one. Stuart Dallas also played and started again last night, helping his side to a 3-0 win, scoring and creating a goal in the process.
Pontus Jansson – Captain
Pontus Jansson couldn’t help stop a comeback from Turkey on Monday night but he did have the honour of captaining his nation, again. Jansson isn’t seen as a captain at club level, by any of the four managers so far but he is at international level. After a good World Cup he is clearly a big part of the plans.
