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Oliver Jones

Ex-Leeds United star left 'surprised' by Jesse Marsch defensive decision

Former Leeds United and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson has said that he's "surprised" by Leeds boss Jesse Marsch's decision to choose Rasmus Kristensen over Luke Ayling at the weekend.

Ayling returned to the Leeds squad after a knee injury and surgery and has been training up his fitness over the Whites' month-long break between fixtures.

Kristensen started over Ayling against Aston Villa at Elland Road last weekend but was replaced by the Englishman with 22 minutes to play.

READ MORE: Rasmus Kristensen faced with new Leeds United problem after fighting off Luke Ayling for now

Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Robinson questioned the manager's decision-making while highlighting the return of captain Liam Cooper as a major plus for the Yorkshire club.

“Leeds have been defensively poor this season and Liam Cooper is a leader. They needed their captain on the pitch and he performed like one at the weekend.

“I think it’s important he stays fit and stays in the team. It was a good performance with 10 men but it’s not the type of performance the manager would have been looking for.

“Aston Villa are not in great form at the moment, they’re a team that’s struggling. They showed that when they couldn’t break Leeds down but Leeds did defend well – a lot better than they have done previously.

“I’m surprised Luke Ayling didn’t come back into the side but with Liam Cooper coming back in, they looked a more solid unit.”

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