Liam Cooper has revealed that he and Pontus Jansson are continuing to push each other in the battle for selection in Leeds United’s starting XI.

Marcelo Bielsa has opted to move Gaetano Berardi into a role at centre-back, which has left Cooper and Jansson battling for a role to the left of Berardi in central defence.

Leeds’ captain, Cooper, has started four of Leeds’ six league fixtures, whilst Jansson has started on only one occasion.

Cooper has been discussing his competition with Jansson with the Yorkshire Evening Post, revealing that it is driving both players on: “Pontus is a great lad and he’s an unbelievable player and we all push each other.

“I have been in Pontus’ shoes before and he’s been in mine and we all push each other and it’s good to know that the lads are rooting for us as well.”

Jansson had started a 3-0 victory over Norwich City, impressing in the absence of Cooper.

However, for Friday’s crucial clash with Middlesbrough, Bielsa made the bold decision to bring Cooper back in with Jansson dropping onto the bench.

Leeds were held to a goalless draw by Boro at Elland Road, with Championship football now taking a backseat due to the international break.

When Leeds return they will face a difficult trip to The Den to face Millwall.

The Verdict  

Competition is good, particularly at a club who hope to be fighting for promotion.

Cooper and Jansson have both looked good this season, which will delight Bielsa, who at some point will have to make changes at centre-back.

For now, it looks like Cooper is winning the battle, but he has an international centre-back in Jansson breathing down his neck.

Despite finding themselves locked in a selection battle, both will have a huge role to play this season.

Thoughts? Let us know.

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