Pontus Jansson produced a mammoth display at the heart of Leeds United’s defence last night, as the Whites beat Preston North End 3-0 at Elland Road.  

Leeds led during the first-half through Liam Cooper’s header, before Tyler Roberts’ second-half brace wrapped up the points for the Whites.

Despite Roberts’ late brace stealing the headlines, there was no denying how good Jansson was.

The 27-year-old is the latest feature of our FLW Spotlight:

Jansson completed 90 minutes against Preston, dominating Louis Moult and Lukas Nmecha, who struggled to get any change out of Leeds’ defence.

Over the course of the game, Jansson only had to make one tackle, but he read the game superbly, making five interceptions and five clearances.

The commanding display of the Swedish international was highlighted by the seven aerial duels he managed to win.

In possession is where Bielsa wants to see his centre-backs improving, with Jansson making 48 passes, which came at a completion of 79%.

The Verdict  

Jansson was excellent last night, with his defensive performance allowing Leeds’ attacking players to really express themselves.

When Jansson is in the type of mood he was last night, there are few better centre-backs in the Championship.

Despite that, Jansson has struggled to regain his place in Leeds’ starting XI, with Gaetano Berardi and Liam Cooper preferred.

Berardi and Cooper are undoubtedly better on the ball than Jansson, but the Swede is showing some major signs of improvement in that department, with his 79% passing accuracy highlighting that.

Jansson looks on the verge of getting back to his very best.

Thoughts? Let us know!

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