Gaetano Berardi has revealed he intends to prove his fitness to Leeds United’s staff during the international break as BBC Radio Leeds journalist Adam Pope hailed him as a “remarkable character”.
The United cult hero has made only one substitute appearance since tearing his hamstring in October but is ready to step into the side in place of the injured Pontus Jansson against Millwall next week.
Asked if he is ready to play 90 in the Elland Road clash on Monday of next week, Jansson told Pope in an interview uploaded on to the journalist’s personal Twitter account: “I hope so, I’m training hard, we still have 10-11 days to the next game, I need to show the staff I’m ready to play. I don’t know what they will do, but I still need to show them that I’m ready.”
Will post a longer audio version of my interview with Berardi later. He remains a remarkable character – humble person, fierce competitor.
— Adam Pope (@apopey) March 21, 2019
OPINION
Berardi is adored by the Leeds fans who appreciate his never-say-die commitment and willingness to put his head where most would not even dangle a leg. The one-time Switzerland international has only added to his legend after it emerged that he rejected the chance of having surgery in the autumn for what would have been the first time in his career, and which would have necessitated a nine-month rehabilitation, in favour of healing naturally and fighting his way back into the team. Berardi’s bravery should be rewarded with a place in the starting XI against Millwall. Marcelo Bielsa does have the option of dropping Kalvin Phillips back, especially if Adam Forshaw is fit again, but that would be a mistake. Phillips is too valuable as the midfield anchorman who launches attacks and dictates the tempo. Berardi is the third best header of the ball at Leeds and he will be need to combat the physicality and long-ball game of Millwall.