Leeds United defender Gaetano Berardi has constantly divided opinion amongst fans at Elland Road ever since his arrival in 2014.

Berardi arrived at Leeds in the summer of 2014 as part of a huge influx of players from the Italian leagues, with then-owner Massimo Cellino keen to put his stamp on the playing squad.

Since then, the versatile defender has remained the only addition from that crop of players from the Italian leagues to keep his place in the Whites’ squad. Berardi is one of Leeds’ longest-serving players currently playing 144 times for the West Yorkshire club.

His last appearance came in Leeds’ 2-0 win over Huddersfield at the weekend where he helped fill in for what was a very makeshift back four, consisting of four full-backs and a centre-back in holding midfield. Berardi put in a solid performance for Leeds as they notched up their 11th clean sheet of the season, keeping their goals conceded tally at just 10.

While Berardi has shown some consistency in his recent outings, there is always the lingering doubt in the minds of everyone affiliated with Leeds that he may do something rash and costly. His red card record speaks for itself, as he currently stands at seven red cards for Leeds (eight if you count his rescinded red card from the Millwall defeat). 

Many have seen this liability of his as a key reason for why the club haven’t offered the Swiss defender a new contract, while many have cited his recklessness as a sign of passion for the club.

Here, we take a look at the debate on a Facebook fans’ page around Berardi’s influence at Elland Road after the weekend’s strong performance…

Martin Hall “Beradi: Good club man, always puts a shift in when called upon, another clean sheet yesterday.”

Darrle Scott Schofield “He’s got heart, that man!”

Ashley Storey “And still no new contract.”

Paul Barks “Considering the stick he gets I thought he played well. Made some important tackles.”

Ben Timpson “Don't forget that he can also play Bielsa ball. He isn't just a hit and hope. For Bielsa to still play him, he's got something. I'd offer him another couple of years, to be honest.”

How much can you remember about Leeds' 2012/13 season?

Tim Rooney “Thought he was a liability last year, especially getting sent off in play-offs. It changed the game, we were cruising until then but just like cooper, he’s playing well when called upon. Don’t suppose it’s anything do with Ben White?”

Steve White “I don't mind Berardi but the play-off semi was unforgivable. A squad player for me. When we get promoted, he will be on his way. Too many red cards for me.”

Toby Evans “He’s a bit of a liability but he’s improved a lot and always puts 110%, so I love him.”

Ray Travers “Love the man's passion but at very best he's a championship player, I can see why no new deal was offered to him. Heart of a lion, just unfortunately not good enough for the Premier League, if we manage to go up.”