'I don’t think Leeds have got the right balance' - Marcelo Bielsa criticised by former England defender

WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 29: Former Arsenal player Martin Keown chats to Steve Clarke, former WBA manager before the match between West Bromwich Albion and Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League at The Hawthorns on November 29, 2014 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The Whites are on a two-game losing streak, having shipped eight goals to Leicester City and Crystal Palace in back-to-back 4-1 losses.

Those results have prompted some pundits to question Bielsa’s tactics, with the Argentine boss famously wedded to a particular method of playing.

One of Leeds and Bielsa’s most vocal critics ahead of Arsenal’s visit to Elland Road this weekend has been Martin Keown.

The former England and Gunners defender stated he would question Bielsa’s trademark style if he were at the club as a player.

Speaking to TalkSPORT, he said: “If I was being asked to do that, I’d have to sit down with the boss after the game against Palace and say, ‘I’m not really sure I completely believe in this because I’m out on my feet here’ – as the Leeds players were in that match.

“Palace just had a low block as Leicester did the week before and had good players at the top of the team with pace, like Vardy the week before

“They were broken down. It was fascinating to commentate on and fascinating to watch but, actually, it wasn’t a winning formula.”

“Guardiola is a very humble man because he looks at the genius and he sees Bielsa’s quality – he’s got an incredible mind for football – but if we link it to success, Guardiola has won an incredible amount of trophies.

“He’s got the balance right and I don’t think Leeds have got the right balance.”

“I don’t know if there has to be a plan B, I think it’s a case of needing a bit more restraint.”

Asked if he thought Leeds United can keep up their momentum throughout the season, Keown remained doubtful.

“He’s had 70-odd matches there and the players are well-drilled and know exactly what he wants.

“I don’t know if the players can sustain it, what I am seeing is their two central defenders being exposed.

“If you’re going man-for-man all over the pitch, there’ll eventually be someone in a one-vs-one situation and they’re not comfortable with that. Vardy and Zaha both did it for them.”