Open doors are what Leeds United’s players will find when they want answers from Michael Skubala on decisions they may not be happy with. The caretaker boss has avoided anything too contentious in his first two matches at the helm, but he prides himself on an open approach with the players he coaches.
On Sunday, there was one moment which was impossible to ignore. As the fourth official’s board went up with Patrick Bamford’s number, Luke Ayling’s reaction was noted first.
The captain could not hide his frustration with the decision, throwing his arms back and even trying to shout over with words of consolation for the striker. Like any player being withdrawn, Bamford was disappointed, but he has since praised Skubala for his post-match actions.
READ MORE: Leeds United dressing room methods central to Luke Ayling's 'really important moment'
“Yeah, we talk all the time,” said Skubala. “We talk all the time and one of my strengths is I'm very talkative with the players and I explain my decisions.
“I'm very open with my decisions and why. With modern players, that's the way and they respect that decision whether he thinks I'm right or not.”
The caretaker would have a one-to-one with Bamford in the days after the match and explain his rationale for removing the striker when he did. Skubala even confessed he should have probably left him on the pitch longer.
“Unfortunately, we're in a job where we have to make decisions,” he said. “No problems, Pat’s been amazing, like all the players, and in that moment we just try and make the best decision we can at the time.”
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