Here are the Leeds United evening headlines for Thursday, November 26.
Kent backed for Premier League switch
Rangers captain James Tavernier believes one-time Leeds United transfer target Ryan Kent will soon be playing Premier League football.
Tavernier, who was born in Bradford and supports the Whites having developed his skills in the academy, believes Kent is good enough to play in the English top flight.
Over the summer it was confirmed by Steven Gerrard that Rangers turned down a bid for Kent from Leeds, who eventually went on to sign Raphinha.
The 24-year-old attacking midfielder has been in strong form for the Old Firm outfit this term, registering five goals and three assists in 15 Scottish Premiership apperances.
“Ryan has all the qualities to become a really top player,” he said (via The Express). “He’s getting there, you can see that. He’s scoring goals and adding numbers to his game. Hopefully, that will continue.
“He is showing incredible consistency. There is nothing better I’d like to see than Ryan in the Premier League and hopefully that day will come — after this season."
Bielsa delivers heartfelt Maradona tribute
Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa gave a touching tribute to his compatriot Diego Maradona, who passed away yesterday.
The Argentina, Napoli and Boca Juniors icon died of a reported cardiac arrest at the age of 60. He was regarded by many as the greatest footballer in history, in large part to the influential role he played in Argentina’s unforgettable 1986 World Cup triumph.
"He couldn't be better," Bielsa told reporters. "He was for us and will continue to be an idol. Given the fact that he's not here with us anymore, it gives us great sadness. For having lost an idol for us, it's something that makes us feel weak.
"Maradona was an artist. The dimension of the repercussion of his art has infinite recognition. To give one example which stands out, the songs that have been written about him are extraordinary.
"And I've read ten texts after his death that have been emotional and there's a recognition of what he gave to the spectators in beauty.”
Here’s what Bielsa said in full.
Measured Bielsa response to tier three ruling
Leeds has been placed into tier three in the government’s coronavirus protocols, meaning no fans will be allowed into Elland Road for the foreseeable future.
But Liverpool and London were placed into tier two, meaning the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Arsenal and Everton will be allowed to welcome up to 2000 fans to their respective grounds from December 2.
Bielsa was asked whether he thought this was fair in his press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash with Everton.
“It’s a question linked to those defining the categories,” he responded.
“The reasons for why Leeds are in category three are the correct ones, then it’s the correct decision. If in category three it means it’s risky for the public to attend, then the decision is correct again.
“What I don’t know if it’s correct Leeds is in category three and this means there should be no fans. The question should not be if it’s okay Leeds does not and Liverpool does have fans.
“The question should be is Leeds right to be in category three and is it right fans should not attend in this category.”
