Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has heaped praise on Joe Rothwell following his match-winning performance in Monday night’s dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Sunderland.
The AFC Bournemouth loanee was instrumental in securing three points for the Whites, providing both assists as Leeds overturned a 1-0 deficit at Elland Road.
Rothwell’s Game-Changing Impact
Leeds struggled to break down a resolute Sunderland defence for much of the game, with the visitors looking set to hold on for an important win. However, Rothwell’s introduction with 20 minutes to play turned the tide, as his two pinpoint crosses were converted by substitute Pascal Struijk to seal a crucial victory.
The 29-year-old midfielder has slipped out of Farke’s starting XI in recent weeks but delivered when it mattered most. His performance led to high praise from his manager, who lauded Rothwell’s technical brilliance.
“We don’t have to speak about his quality, he’s a pure baller – with the ball probably one of the best in this country.
“What he does in terms of passing, his technique and tidy touches is outstanding. Sometimes in this position you need a few different skills or you would win Premier League title after title and have 150 caps for England.”
Something Different in Midfield
Leeds had dominated possession but lacked the cutting edge to unlock Sunderland’s disciplined defence. Rothwell provided the creative spark they had been missing, offering a more progressive presence compared to Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu, who are typically more focused on controlling the tempo of play.
His ability to deliver under pressure will no doubt give Farke something to consider after leaving him out of the starting lineup for four of the last five games.
Leeds Back on Top
The win saw Leeds United reclaim the top spot in the Championship, restoring their two-point lead over Sheffield United with 13 games remaining. They now sit seven points clear of the play-off positions, further strengthening their push for automatic promotion.
Meanwhile, Sunderland remain fourth, 10 points adrift of the top two, making their chances of breaking into the automatic promotion places increasingly difficult. With Leeds now in pole position, many will back them to secure their return to the Premier League in the coming months.
Writer’s View
Joe Rothwell’s performance against Sunderland was a reminder of his unique qualities within Leeds United’s midfield. His vision, passing range, and composure under pressure gave Farke’s side the edge they desperately needed. With promotion now within touching distance, Rothwell could prove to be a vital asset in the final stretch of the campaign.
