Former Leeds United Defender Slams Connor Roberts for Playoff Final Performance
Former Leeds United defender Jon Newsome has strongly criticized Connor Roberts for his disappointing performance in the playoff final against Southampton. Roberts, who is on loan from Burnley, was introduced in the 73rd minute as Leeds United sought to overturn a 1-0 deficit, but failed to make a positive impact on the game.
Newsome, who was providing commentary for BBC Radio Leeds, was scathing in his assessment of Roberts’ contribution, describing it as “woeful”. He stated, “He’s been woeful since he’s come on, Connor Roberts. All he’s done is give the ball away.” In contrast, Newsome praised fellow substitute Dan James, saying, “Dan James, the opposite. He’s been absolutely electric.”
Roberts’ loan deal at Leeds United is set to expire this summer, and it is expected that he will return to Burnley. His performance in the playoff final will not have done much to convince Leeds United to pursue a permanent deal for the player.
The defeat to Southampton means that Leeds United will spend another season in the Championship, and the club must now focus on retaining their key players over the summer transfer window. The loss was a bitter pill to swallow, particularly given the high stakes of the game, which is often referred to as the “richest game in football”.
Newsome’s criticism of Roberts is likely to resonate with Leeds United fans, who were left frustrated by the team’s inability to break down a resolute Southampton defense. The introduction of Roberts and James was seen as a last-ditch attempt to salvage the game, but ultimately it was not enough to prevent defeat.
The playoff final defeat is a significant setback for Leeds United, who had been hoping to secure promotion back to the Premier League. The club will now need to regroup and refocus ahead of another season in the Championship.
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