Pulis: Leeds play direct football

TONY PULIS has heaped praise on Leeds’ direct style as he bids to usurp Marcelo Bielsa’s side at the top of the Championship tonight.

Middlesbrough go to Elland Road in a clash between first and second — the two sides together on 13 points after five matches. Leeds have scored 14 goals so far, winning plaudits for their passing and pressing under new Argentine boss Bielsa, while Pulis’ Boro have impressed at the back, conceding just twice. But despite a perceived contrast in styles, Pulis expects Leeds to get the ball forward quickly — a characteristic often linked to the teams he has built.

‘Actually I think his play is very direct,’ said Pulis of Bielsa. ‘They play through the pitch quickly, they get bodies up, they play forward and run forward. That’s direct. They create lots of opportunities doing that.’

Bielsa, Pulis says, is the manager Leeds need after 15 seasons outside the top flight. ‘He’s a top coach who knows the game,’ said Pulis. ‘He’s been at some big clubs and has the experience to handle the situation there.’

Leeds v Middlesbrough,

LIVE on Sky Sports Football from 7pm. Kick off 7.45pm