Leeds United picked up arguably their biggest win of the season against Nottingham Forest on Friday night at Elland Road.
Ilia Gruev was amongst those Leeds players who impressed, with the Bulgarian midfielder receiving praise from manager Daniel Farke following the game.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin was also in line to receive some well-deserved credit after his exceptional finish killed the game off just after half-time for Leeds.
Tim Sherwood was one of the pundits to wax lyrical about the Leeds forward, with Sherwood going on to make a sensational claim regarding Calvert-Lewin and Leeds’ transfer policy in January
Leeds were right to avoid Jorgen Strand Larsen, claims Tim Sherwood
Facundo Buonanotte was the only new addition at United in January; however, Strand Larsen was also a name frequently linked with a move to Elland Road.
Speaking after Leeds demolished Nottingham Forest whilst on punditry duties for Premier League Productions, Sherwood sang Calvert-Lewin’s praises whilst claiming the 49ers did the right thing by avoiding bringing in Strand Larsen for such a hefty fee.
“He’s ended up being a fantastic signing (Calvert-Lewin). They were in for Strand Larsen, but there was no need to pay that sort of money when you’ve got this boy playing, he wants to play one upfront there.
Brenden Aaronson’s been outstanding in behind him, I think they’ve got very good players, if he (Calvert-Lewin) scores six more, they certainly won’t get relegated.”
During Crystal Palace’s 1-0 away win over Brighton, Strand Larsen played 90 minutes for his new club, and judging by the data, Leeds appear to have made the correct decision by not signing him.
- The striker had an xG of 0.37 from his three shots at goal and failed to score
- Strand Larsen was also sloppy in possession, giving the ball away 17 times
- The Norwegian also failed to provide a physical presence up top, winning just three of the 17 duels he was involved in (Sofascore)
If Calvert-Lewin can remain fit from now until the end of the season whilst continuing to chip in with goals, the 49ers’ decision not to fork out on Strand Larsen will look to be a genius move.
However, if Calvert-Lewin and Nmecha are both out, which could happen given their injury records, and Leeds have to turn to Joel Piroe to lead the line, the decision not to sign Strand Larsen could prove costly.
