Derby County manager Phillip Cocu has claimed he substituted midfielder Krystian Bielik during his side's 1-1 draw with Leeds United because the intensity of the game was too high.

The former Arsenal man was withdrawn in the 61st minute of Saturday afternoon's clash which saw the Rams draw 1-1 with Marcelo Bielsa's side after Chris Martin's injury-time equaliser cancelled out Max Lowe's own goal earlier in the match.

Bielik was making his seventh appearance of the season since his permanent move from Arsenal over the summer, but he was replaced by experienced forward Jamie Paterson in a tactical switch during the second half.

Cocu has now provided an explanation for the midfielder's substitution, which came after Leeds had dominated large spells of possession in the match. The Rams boss claimed that his side needed more energy on the pitch at the time with Bielik still adapting to life in the Championship.

"We needed more energy on the pitch, that is why he went off. I think he has to get used to this kind of the style of play in these games," Cocu told the Derby Telegraph.

"You see the difference in Tom Huddlestone, he is used to it, he knows what is coming, he's prepared. He played an excellent game, that's my opinion.

"Krys tried, but the intensity of the game was so high."

Bielik signed for the Rams this summer after spending last season on loan at Charlton Athletic, where he helped the Addicks achieve promotion from League One. His only previous Championship experience before this campaign came during his loan stint at Birmingham City during the 2016/17 campaign.

The Verdict

Bielik did indeed struggle in his midfield role during this match, but it should be remembered that he is a young player featuring against one of the most tactically accomplished sides in the division in Leeds.

Cocu made the right decision in substituting him around the hour mark, but Bielik should not lose confidence over his performance as this match will have provided him with a learning curve to help him cope better in the future.

I think it's possible that Bielik may also function better in defence within this Derby side, as he could then have the licence to bring the ball forward from deep which could suit his game better.

There is no doubt that Bielik is a player with a very bright future, but he just needs to be given time to find his feet in this Derby side. Cocu must also try and work out the best ways to utilise the 21-year-old.