Kemar Roofe has admitted that training under Marcelo Bielsa at Leeds United was always very demanding.
The Argentinian was appointed as the Whites boss at the start of last season, when Roofe was at the club. And, the ex-Oxford man was a key figure for Bielsa, featuring in 33 games and scoring 15 goals in a campaign that ultimately ended in disappointment as the team lost in the play-off semi-final to Derby County.
Over the summer, the 27-year-old completed a surprise move to Belgian giants Anderlecht, meaning his time with Bielsa was over after just one year. However, working with the ex-Athletic Bilbao coach clearly left an impression, with Roofe explaining to iNews just how tough it was each day at Thorp Arch.
“I thought I was fit already but working under him I got even fitter. It’s helped me a lot.We had some very intense training sessions. There was one session a week where we’d play an 11-a-side game and it was so hard. It was harder than the games on a weekend.
“There’s no walking about. There are no throw-ins. There are no corner kicks. The ball’s always in play so you’re having to run non-stop. If you’re not running at your maximum, you’ll get found out.”
What league will Leeds United be playing in next season?
Premier League
Championship
Roofe has endured a tough times with injuries since moving to the Belgian top-flight, with fitness problems restricting him to just 13 league games, although he has made a big impact when he has played, scoring six goals and contributing two assists.
It’s fair to say he hasn’t been missed at Elland Road though, with the Yorkshire outfit currently leading the way in the Championship and they are in a commanding position for promotion, boasting a seven-point lead over third-placed Fulham with just nine games to play. So, Bielsa’s methods are clearly paying off, as he looks to become the man that ends Leeds United’s long stay outside the top-flight.