Noel Whelan has told BBC Radio Leeds that he is baffled by Ezgjan Alioski’s selection for Leeds United against Derby County and believes he is a “wasted” player.
Alioski has been named in the Leeds starting XI in a Championship match for the 13th time out of 15 this season despite many calling for him to be axed.
Ex-Elland Road striker Whelan, who watches all of Leeds’ matches, is perplexed that Alioski remains in the team after their run of five defeats from their last six games.
“Honestly, I’ve got no idea. I really do not know,” he told BBC Radio Leeds, “He’s a wasted man at times. I know he does work off the ball and that’s great but I’ve still got to see so much more from him. He’s got to be stronger, he’s got to be more aggressive.
“Against Bristol, I was really pleased with him because he was aggressive in that final third when he created the goal. He was tackling, he was getting back, but it’s got to be on a consistent basis and he’s not the only person either.”
OPINION
It’s high time that Alioski pulled his finger out and showed what all the fuss is about. His recent performances have veered between the average and the dreadful, and memories of his encouraging early season form in the wake of his transfer from Lugano are swiftly beginning to fade. A return of just one goal and two assists from 15 matches is a poor return for a mainstay of the team. Leeds need more from him, and it’s time to deliver.