Byram chance, Bamford boost, Ampadu shines and Poveda class as Leeds United beat Nottingham Forest - Leeds Live 27/72/23

Leeds United claimed a 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton on Thursday night

Leeds United picked up their first win of pre-season, seeing off Premier League Nottingham Forest 2-0 at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton.

Here’s a look at the winners and losers from the clash.

Winners

Sam Byram

The full-back continues to train with Leeds and after getting some minutes against Monaco, he was handed his a start against Forest. Eyes were on him and he didn’t disappoint as he seemed at home on the left of Leeds’ back four.

He appeared a safe bet defensively and looked to probe and cause problems on the ball, pushing forward and attempting to combine with Dan James ahead of him. He’s looking for a contract and Leeds may well be tempted to offer him one on the back of his outing in Burton with the start of the season now just around the corner.

With Junior Firpo injured, Leeds find themselves without a natural fit at left-back once more and while he’s more comfortable on the right, Byram could be an option.

Ethan Ampadu

Another impressive showing from the new signing. He was the best player on the park once again as he continues to settle into Leeds life, picking passes out across the field and making the Whites tick.

It’s a little early to be making decisive judgements but he’s started really well at his new club and he’s certainly made a promising start.

Ian Poveda

He certainly made his mark against Forest after stepping into the fray at the interval. The winger immediately had the beating of his opposite man Josh Powell and he never failed to take the opportunity to skin him with his pace and quick feet.

Poveda got balls into the box from his wide position before stepping inside to cause havoc supporting Georginio Rutter, who looks to be gaining confidence, as well.. He took his goal very well, too, latching onto a Rutter lay-off before finding the bottom corner of the net from the edge of the box.

His emergence has certainly come as a surprise, but it’s fair to say he has to be in contention for the opening game against Cardiff City now.

Patrick Bamford

Marked his first start of pre-season by bagging the Whites’ first goal of the summer in front of fans. Bamford was steady away throughout the contest, pressing well and dropping deep to get a feel of the ball when required without looking overly threatening.

But, when the opportunity arose, he was there to pounce. Latching onto a loose back pass, Bamford kept his composure to beat the keeper by rolling his foot over the ball before placing it into the bottom corner of the net.

After the way last season ended for him, it felt like a big moment and it might just breathe confidence into him as the season nears.

Joe Gelhardt

The number 10 spot still looks up for grabs after Gelhardt failed to make the most of his opportunity playing behind Bamford. It’s a problem position with Leeds crying out for creativity, but Gelhardt wasn’t able to provide it.

He tried hard to get on the ball, but Leeds’ best moves seemed to bypass him and he’ll be keen to do more should he get the opportunity against Hearts on Sunday.