Graham Smyth's Leeds United player ratings vs Sunderland with 'impressive' 8/10 as attackers get 6s | OneFootball

Leeds United claimed their first pre-season win with a 1-0 victory over Sunderland, Lukas Nmecha scoring as Tarik Muharemovic caught the eye.

The opener arrived on 25 minutes when Nmecha exploited goalkeeper Melker Ellborg’s poor positioning to squeeze in from 40 yards. Sunderland’s best first-half opening fell to Brian Brobbey, who scuffed Reinildo’s cross. As reported by yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, these are the standout ratings.

Leeds made six changes at half-time and Sunderland refreshed most of their side around the hour. Daniel James and Anton Stach had half-chances as the contest fragmented, but United held firm for the clean sheet.

Tarik Muharemovic was awarded eight out of 10 for a sharp first 45 minutes, composed on the ball and smart in defence.

Joe Rodon received seven, getting forward to support attacks and proving good in the air after being wiped out by Brobbey. Sebastiaan Bornauw also took seven, not always fully comfortable in possession before the break but solid when danger arose.

Jayden Bogle earned seven, pushing on down the right with a couple of decent deliveries and always offering for the ball.

Goalkeeper Alex Cairns was given six, alert to issues with a comfortable late save, though his long distribution was not always accurate. Sean Longstaff likewise scored six, busy but less influential than against Wrexham and visibly frustrated with the referee.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk