Noel Whelan believes that Ezgjan Alioski is better operating as a left-back for Leeds United than in an advanced attacking role.

Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa chose to play Alioski at left-back on Friday night when the Whites put Derby County to the sword at Elland Road, running out 2-0 winners.




Whelan has been a regular critic of Alioski throughout the campaign, but the former Leeds star thinks the left-back role suited him perfectly, while the Macedonian has stepped up his performance over the Whites' last four games.

In the aftermath of the win, Whelan said of Alioski on BBC Radio Leeds: "I think the past four games he's been excellent, I really do.
 


"I actually think he's better at left-back than he is in that left midfield area to be honest.

"He loves the box to box work, he can cover round, he still gets forward as well.
 

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"I just think his delivery is always better when he's coming on to the ball from that left-back position.

"I've not really seen him go past anybody when he's playing left wing. He seems to get to a certain point and then comes back", Whelan added.

Alioski has been handed regular playing time by Bielsa this term, with the Argentine having admitted his admiration for the work the Macedonia international puts in on the pitch.

Next up for the Whites is a trip to face Stoke City as they bid to continue their strong push for promotion.