Anton Stach tops free-kick chart as 49ers add investor Maxx Crosby | OneFootball

Anton Stach’s stunning free-kick on Saturday capped one of his best Leeds displays and put him clear atop the Premier League’s direct free-kick chart. Leeds have also added NFL star Maxx Crosby as a new investor under 49ers Enterprises.

Leeds Live notes it was his fourth of the season, with three direct free-kicks, the most by any Premier League player, and Leeds lead the division for such goals. He first scored one against Wolverhampton Wanderers in September, then added another in December’s 4-1 win over Crystal Palace. Before this season, his previous direct free-kick was for fourth-tier SSV Jeddeloh in 2017.

The German said he spotted the goalkeeper edging towards the far post and, despite team-mates wanting a back-post delivery, backed his instincts to shoot. The strike may yet enter goal of the season discussions in May, and it will surely feature in Leeds’ own shortlist.

Rival managers continue to praise Daniel Farke. Unai Emery used Saturday’s programme notes to voice admiration, and Manchester City visit this weekend with Pep Guardiola having called Farke in August after Arsenal’s 5-0 win. It is not known if they have spoken since, though after City’s 2-1 win over Newcastle on Saturday Guardiola again underlined his respect.

Crosby, the Las Vegas Raiders defensive end, confirmed his investment, voicing pride in backing Leeds and its culture. He joins a roster that includes Jordan Spieth, Michael Phelps and NBA forward Larry Nance Jr, while actors Russell Crowe and Will Ferrell are also involved.

Source: Leeds Live