Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has tore into Swedish defender Pontus Jansson, citing the big defender as 'not a team player'.

The popular Leeds man was seen sat at the side of the pitch as Derby celebrated their dramatic victory at Elland Road in mid-week, and while many praised Jansson for seemingly caring so much about the result, Whelan was left unimpressed.

“It’s all about him. He is not a team player." Whelan told West Yorkshire Sport Daily, with quotes in the Daily Star.

"He’s an individual. It is as simple as that."

It is not the first time Jansson has come under the microscope for seemingly taking his own personal goals ahead of the team, and despite some all action displays and committed performances, there have been eyebrows raised about a number of decisions the Swede has taken in games this season.

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Whelan too did not seem too fussed about the prospect of Jansson leaving Elland Road, adding:

“If he is the first to go, fantastic, because they are better defenders. I will tell you what, he is not Premier League class.”

Jansson was signed by Leeds in a £3.5m deal from Malmo after impressing during a loan spell in West Yorkshire and has in the main become a fan favourite with many at Leeds.

However, with the future of manager Marcelo Bielsa up in the air, Jansson could well be one player who doesn't stay on with the club next term, with or without Bielsa.

The Verdict

It's not hard to see where Whelan is coming from with this one in all honesty, and he does have a big and valid point.

Jansson does come across like he is all about himself and how it has affected him, and from a neutral point of view, it just doesn't look right.

I'm sure he does care about the club, but less self indulgence wouldn't go amiss in the future.