'Not a gift' - Daniel Farke hits back at Leeds United theory after routine Plymouth Argyle win
Leeds United boss Daniel Farke heaped praise on his players after their commanding win over Championship strugglers Plymouth Argyle. Farke's men strolled to a fourth straight home win to move up to second in the table and move to within three points of leaders Sunderland.
Three quickfire first half goals from Daniel James, Joel Piroe and Brenden Aaronson did the damage to extend their unbeaten streak to eight matches. The Pilgrims lined up in a defensive formation but were second best in every department, failing to register a single shot at goal.
Farke said: "We needed 10 or 15 minutes to find our positioning between the lines, to create chances against this back six and the three midfielders in front of them. We were all over them. (We) scored really good goals. Could have done more."
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With the three points wrapped up, Farke rested a number of first team players in the final quarter of the contest. Joe Rothwell, Aaronson, Gnonto, James and Piroe were all withdrawn.
Youngsters Sam Chambers and Charlie Crew were handed debuts. United supporters also got their first glimpse of new signing Josuha Guilavogui.
"I was happy to rest a few players like [Joe] Rothwell in the second half ahead of a tough week," said Farke, whose side travel to Millwall on Wednesday before entertaining Queens Park Rangers in the final fixture before the international break. "For the players with first appearances, good to have them under their belt. Always a bit like they are nervous in there first. Josuha excellent. Body language, not sure if he lost one duel or ball. (I) Could sense his experience.
"Two of our own got on too. They were nervous. Nearly scored or got an assist. Not a gift for them. Sam Chambers in training, earned this. Well deserved. Easy when key players are out with injury or illness. We need Sam and Charlie and Josuha. We want positive vibes. They delivered in a top way."