Zaliukas ready and waiting as Austin fails again January 2, 2014 First team, News No comments
Captain: the leader of a team, especially in sports.
In recent years, the captaincy of Leeds United has been passed around as if it doesn’t mean anything. Last season, when Robert Snodgrass left for pastures new, Neil Warnock outrageously made the decision to give the armband to Lee Peltier, a Summer recruit from Leicester City. What did we achieve from it? Nothing. Peltier never really had any responsibility that a United captain should, I mean he was kept from playing in his natural position by a young Sam Byram.
This season Brian McDermott took his time before deciding to make Rodolph Austin the latest captain. The majority of fans seemed to praise this decision, at times Austin looks like a man possessed, with his tough tackling and driving runs from deep. For me, he’s far too inconsistent to be a captain. Away from home, especially. Apart from Leicester, I can’t remember a game away from Elland Road this season where he has played well. Even at home, however, in recent weeks he has really struggled to find any form.
His passing ability is the worst aspect of his game in my opinion, along with his stupid decision making when taking on long-range efforts when there’s a better option – such as a pass, keeping us in possession of the ball. I just don’t think he should be captain and I do believe there’s someone in our team who would suit the role much better.
Marius Zaliukas captained Hearts for three seasons, and lead them to winning the Scottish Cup in 2012. He was released due to their financial situation, and he’s just signed a longer deal at Elland Road until the end of next season. Not just the fact he’s had experience as a captain, he’s so calm and composed on the ball. Sitting in the central defensive role he can see everything ahead of him, and he always seems to be talking to his team-mates. I’d like to see him played in the defensive-midfield role if I’m honest. His passing ability isn’t too shabby, either.
He definitely suits the captains role for me, but then again, I’m not Brian McDermott. Leave your comments below, do you think Zaliukas should be made captain?
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