Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Thomas Christiansen has indicated that Andy Lonergan is set for an extended period in the Leeds United first-team.

Christiansen’s selection on Saturday afternoon came as a surprise, with Wiedwald, who has been Leeds’ first choice goalkeeper all season, replaced by Lonergan for the clash with Reading at Elland Road.

Lonergan put in an impressive display on what was just his second appearance since his return to Elland Road, pulling off some fine saves on a disappointing afternoon for Leeds.

The experienced goalkeeper was eventually beaten late in the game by Mo Barrow’s strike, as Leeds suffered a third consecutive defeat in the Championship.

Despite his late concession on Saturday, Christiansen has hinted that Lonergan will continue, admitting Wiedwald was set for a spell on the bench, he said: “He (Wiedwald) is professional and he’s been playing from the beginning.

“Now it’s his turn to be on the bench and wait for his opportunity again, like all the players.”

Leeds’ defeat to Reading was their fourth in five fixtures, a run that has seen Christiansen’s side slide from the top of the Championship table into sixth.

The Whites have 20 points from their opening 13 fixtures, but are now just one point above Aston Villa, who sit seventh.

Christiansen’s side are tasked with a difficult end to October, travelling to Bristol City, before heading back to Elland Road for back-to-back fixtures.

Sheffield United visit on the last Friday of October, before Derby County arrive just four days later.

The Verdict  

Christiansen’s decision on his goalkeepers came as a surprise, particularly after making comments about his faith in Wiedwald to respond, after struggling prior to the international break.

Lonergan didn’t let anybody down on Saturday and justified his selection, however, there is still a feeling that Wiedwald will be Leeds’ long-term first choice.

But for now, Leeds need Lonergan to be a calming figure at a testing time.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!