Lamps won’t change ways

LIFE was never going to be the same again for Leeds’ footballers once Marcelo Bielsa arrived.

He’s certainly lived up to his reputation as a prodigious worker, an enlightening coach and an astute tactician.

Little did the players imagine, however, that the Bielsa revolution sweeping over Elland Road would be quite so comprehensive.

“We are learning something every day,” said Kemar Roofe.

“Every time we are on the grass, we are getting educated, learning, improving. And it’s not just about football. He wants us to be a better person off the pitch too.”

Society will judge whether Bielsa’s moulded a squad of solid citizens but what is not in doubt is that a reinvigorated Leeds side will be pushing for promotion.

And Roofe, on his August form, will have a key role in Leeds’ bid to end their 15 year Premier League exile.

He sealed a hard-fought win over a well-organised Rotherham side with a wonderful second goal after Luke Ayling’s first goal for the club just after half-time broke the deadlock.

“He wants us to be brave,” added Roofe, who has now scored three goals this term. “And he tells us off for not being brave enough.

“The way we played the ball out from in the corner, that’s what we practise because if we just kick it anywhere, the gaffer is not happy.”

Spanish midfielder Samuel Saiz admits Bielsa’s methods are already reaping rewards.

“Our football is fast but we are able to do that because of all the work we put in during the week,” he said. “We feel fitter than other teams.”

Millers boss Paul Warne was struck by Bielsa’s habit of sitting on a bucket during games, saying: “That’s a bit weird but, apart from that, I like him.

“There are sheep and shepherds and he’s definitely a shepherd!”