Leeds United player ratings as Illan Meslier and Liam…

Leeds United player ratings as Illan Meslier and Liam Cooper shine in solid Newcastle stalemate

Leeds United (4-2-3-1)

1 Illan Meslier

Very good performance from the Frenchman. Stood up in some big moments with big saves, but did the basics with authority too. Came and collected high balls to take the sting out of the tail for his defenders in the box. 8

2 Luke Ayling

Struggled with Joelinton at times in the first half. Was keen to get forward down the right, but that left spaces in behind for the Brazilian, frustrating his own teammates at times. Improved after the break and played his part in keep the sheet clean. 6

5 Robin Koch

Referee did not do him too many favours with harsh calls on what looked like fair challenges at times. Solid enough and Chris Wood barely had a sniff until deep into the second half. 7

6 Liam Cooper (c)

Much better than midweek. Strong in the challenge and kept Wood and Callum Wilson largely pocketed throughout the afternoon. 8

21 Pascal Struijk

Turned inside out by Miguel Almiron at points. Some more of the hurried, shanked clearances we saw on Wednesday too. Took a couple of unnecessary risks when he was on a yellow card. 6

4 Adam Forshaw

Did not catch the eye as much as he did in the week, but not too many mistakes or errors in his half on the field. 6

12 Tyler Adams

As combative as ever. A little rusty, but popped up in some big moments to snuff out danger as per usual. 7

7 Brenden Aaronson

Couldn't fault his typically high work rate, but lacked quality on the ball and vision when dribbling forward from deep. 5

11 Jack Harrison

Continues in the same challenging vein he ended the first phase of the season in. Balls bypassing him, and opposition going by him. Hard to tell what his role was. 4

29 Wilfried Gnonto

Carried a fraction more of a threat than Aaronson, but not a lot in it. Didn't find the same sparkle we have seen in recent weeks. Showing a firmer edge to his character with some of the niggly fouls and backchat he was dishing out. 5

19 Rodrigo

Just the 22 touches in 81 minutes for the Spaniard. Isolated in this system. Tested Nick Pope more than anyone else with a zipper from range. 5

Substitutes

22 Joel Robles

3 Junior Firpo

8 Marc Roca (on for Forshaw h/t)

Barely noticed. 5

10 Crysencio Summerville (on for Gnonto 70min)

Asked some different questions with his pace and agility, but never got a clear look. 6

14 Diego Llorente

25 Rasmus Kristensen (on for Ayling 70min)

Undone by Allan Saint-Maximin repeatedly. 5