Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa believes that Derby County are in a false position as the two sides prepare to meet at Elland Road this season.

The Rams, managed by Phillip Cocu, are 19th in the Championship and have only won once all season - which came on the opening day. With the Whites flying high at the top of the league, many see this as a home banker.

However, Bielsa told the Yorkshire Evening Post that the east Midlands outfit are playing better than the table suggests and he also praised their Dutch coach.

"Cocu is a manager with a lot of prestige. And as every coach and manager he has a link with the ball possession and to creative play and dynamic as well.

"Championship teams have highs and lows - in this case it is with a new manager, it is a natural thing that the adaptation needs time. The performances they have had are better than their results, the play they have is not reflecting."

This game is sure to have an edge following the Spygate controversy from last season, with Derby beating Leeds in the play-off semi-final on a few months later.

The verdict

Bielsa has always been very respectful about the opposition in his press conferences since he came to England so this is to be expected.

In fairness, he is probably spot on as well. Derby have been unfortunate in certain games, particularly at home, and should be higher up the table.

But, this is just a message from Bielsa to his players that they shouldn't get complacent and you can be sure that won't be the case as they look to get one over the Rams following the last time the sides played at Elland Road.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.