Bielsa praised Adam Fosshao for his "perseverance"! Rogers: It was a great game

Marcelo Bielsa praised leeds United midfielder Adam Fochau after coming on in the club's opening Premier League game against Leicester City.

The 30-year-old, after recovering from chronic hip problems, began playing Leicester at Elamro. When Liz got a point, he was impressed.

Rafinha's free-kick gave Leeds United a lead before Harvey Barnes equalised.

Fochau's last league start was in August 2019 and he played a key role in leeds United's revival until he was replaced in the 89th minute.

"It's a reward for his perseverance," said Bielsa, whose side moved up two places to 15th, four points behind Leicester City in 11th place.

"He didn't play for two years. He never gave up. In addition, provide value to all those who cooperate with his rehabilitation.

"It's very difficult to get back to that level after two years. Most importantly, Fochau got this on his own.

"It's a message because I doubt he can achieve what he just achieved. Information to those who are skeptical, information to those who can mimic similar behavior.

"It seems that my position is exaggerated, but if everyone knows the difficulties he has had to overcome over the years, they will understand that what I recognize is deserved."

Asked if Leeds United had returned to near their best form, Bielsa added: "It's exactly the same comment I made about the players after the game.

"They look more like a team with capacity building, good ball possession, possession, danger making, high percentage of game advantages and opportunities to replicate opponents.

"These are all aspects to take seriously, and apart from that, it was a very good game."

Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers is waiting to understand the full extent of the calf injury that forced Yuri Tillermans in the 77th minute, and he also enjoyed a free-flowing encounter.

"I'm proud of the team," he said. "We've played a lot of games lately, so coming to Leeds we understand their physical qualities and what they're putting into the game.

"So match and show that resilience, and then show the quality moment, fight back from behind." Overall, I think it was a great game. ”

Rodgers expressed disappointment that Ademola Lukeman's efforts in the second half were ruled out of offside but knew more about his team.

"This year we've shown that when we're behind, we're not too disappointed," Rogers added. "We don't want to do it, but when we do, we'll do it straight away and do it again.

"The kick-off was very much in line with our requirements, the excellent performance of Jonny (Evans) and that's why Barnesy and Ademola joined the team – the ability to go one-on-one.

"It's an excellent skill and done in the top corner. It's a great way to respond. ”