clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Leeds Season (so far) ratings: Ezgjan Alioski

May not be starting every game, but he has been very useful to Leeds this season.

Huddersfield Town v Leeds United - Sky Bet Championship Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

North Macedonia international Ezgjan Alioski has been a very useful player for Leeds United this season. Starting 18 games and coming off the bench 12 times mainly at left-back or on the left-wing, although he has popped up on the right a couple of times.

While Alioski probably isn’t in Marcelo Bielsa’s first choice XI at Leeds, he is often the first replacement, with other players often switching positions around him - Stuart Dallas in particular.

Arsenal FC v Leeds United - FA Cup Third Round Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

Alioski has chipped in with four goals and three assists - some of them at key times, possibly the most key goal went down as an own-goal as his shot was deflected in by Kyle Bartley in the 1-0 home win over West Bromwich Albion. He has provided an excellent level of energy in every game, and his pace and stamina is usually enough to get him out of trouble on the occasions when he makes a mistake.

The main criticism of Alioski is he often lacks composure in the final third, especially in terms of shooting when there are other, better options. He is also sometimes a bit “unorthodox”.

BEST PERFORMANCE

Huddersfield (A) - Solid all game and then scored a fantastic volley from the edge of the box to give Leeds the lead. Had a hand in the second goal as well. All around good performance.

WORST PERFORMANCE

Nottingham Forest (A) - Leeds’ worst performance of the season so there could end up being a few with this game. Poor throughout and should have been sent off.

SEASON (so far) RATINGS

Has done a good job as both a left-back and left-winger. Not first choice for either position but not someone I have worries about coming in. Has done his part and there are some points Leeds would not have without him. 7/10