Leeds United’s Samu Saiz is another man underfire following our draw against Southend United at Roots Hall at the weekend.
The 27-year-old largely struggled against the League One opposition as our pre-season preparations continue ahead of the coming 2018/19 Championship campaign, and whilst he’s far from alone in being picked out for a poor showing, the Spaniard hasn’t really won many friends following his maiden season at the club as his goal return was so poor in 2017/18 and plenty expected better.
28 Championship starts with six substitute showings only returned five goals for the player, although his season record improves on a goal front given two showings in the League Cup which returned four goals. That said his seven assists from the attacking midfield spot came in handy.
It’s not a great return, however, especially when fans can reference some of the talent we’ve had at the club previously. Plenty would also point to his inconsistent performance levels, he can go from looking like the Championship should be a breeze for him, to seemingly struggling at non-league level with 45 minutes.
Those consistency problems have been highlighted once more the last few weeks and for some fans their patience has run out. It’s fair to say he has plenty of supporters though and they are quite vociferous in their views about his strengths and worth to us.
Alioski & Saiz been terrible in last two games …
— Adam Brown (@adambrown1992) July 22, 2018
Saiz does not seem to suit this type of football always wants another touch needs to release the ball quickly. Philips looks a far better player already #lufc
— Adam (@Miller1000) July 22, 2018
Replace the consistently useless Saiz & Alioski with Baker/Hernandez and we improve team 30% plus Roberts for Roofe and goals may come.
— Pugster (@Pugster5) July 22, 2018
Defo gonna struggle to get too half finish this year. I like the way we play the ball and move on and off the ball Ayling great like look of Roberts and roofe always does a job saiz ain't the player I thought he was and we are in desperate need of I would say 6 players #lufc ????
— Carl O'Brien (@Carl09902053) July 22, 2018
I liked what saiz was trying. And he tracked back more today that the entirety of last season
— Chris jones (@Peck98Jones) July 22, 2018
Why do #lufc players find it so difficult to beat first man at corners and set pieces? Need better than what Alioski and Saiz are producing today
— CJ Parker (@ceriparker) July 22, 2018
At the beginning of last season we saw so much potential for the likes of Saiz and Alioski. Can't say the same now. Disappointing so far in pre season. #lufc
— Opinion LUFC (@opinionlufc) July 22, 2018
At the beginning of last season we saw so much potential for the likes of Saiz and Alioski. Can't say the same now. Disappointing so far in pre season. #lufc
— Opinion LUFC (@opinionlufc) July 22, 2018