Christiansen: I was anxious about this Leeds player ahead of Burnley clash
By Richard Parks
Thomas Christiansen has revealed he was “anxious” about veteran goalkeeper Andy Lonergan ahead of his second Leeds United debut.
The late August signing made the first appearance of his second spell at the club in Tuesday night’s League Cup win against Burnley after stepping in for first choice Felix Wiedwald.
It proved to be a memorable night for Lonergan, 33, as he helped United progress into the last-16 for the second consecutive season with a series of saves in normal time and a crucial block from James Tarkowski during the penalty shoot-out.
Manager Christiansen admitted that he was concerned about the keeper’s lack of game going into the match despite his vast experience.
“I have a very good goalkeeper, he’d proved that and I was anxious to see him action,” Christiansen said to the Yorkshire Evening Post. “He’s had a very good attitude in training and my expectation of him was fulfilled with his (performance).”
Lonergan, who had a 12-month spell at Leeds that ended in 2012, joined on a free transfer from Championship rivals Wolves this summer following the departure of Rob Green to Premier League new boys Huddersfield.
Lonergan has spent virtually his entire career in the Championship, most of which has been at Preston North End.
Wiedwald has established himself as the undisputed number one at Leeds following his summer arrival from Werder Bremen.
The German has conceded just three goals in eight league matches this season.
In other Leeds United news, a 26-year-old Monk mainstay is fighting for his Elland Road career after recent developments.
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