Championship Centre-back of the Season: Pontus Jansson

Jansson a revelation

Before Leeds United’s Pontus Jansson played in a single league game after joining on loan from Torino, the team had endured a disappointing August. They conceded nine goals in five Championship games, leaving them fourth from bottom.

He came into a young defence that conceded soft goals in a heavy defeat at QPR on the opening day, then at Nottingham Forest. It would be no exaggeration to say that his impact upon the back-line was transformative. Having won three league titles in Sweden with Malmo FF, Jansson provided leadership, calmness and composure on the ball.

With him in the team, Leeds stopped panicking in awkward situations and became more stubborn in the way they defended. In the 28 games that he started, Leeds kept 11 clean sheets. They became a devilishly hard side to unpick, helped by Liam Bridcutt’s midfield battling and the steady performances of right-back Luke Ayling.

Last week, Garry Monk made the shock decision to drop Jansson against Brighton for the first time. Perhaps he feared complacency or shifted focus, with Sweden’s international fixtures coming later this week.

We may never know the real reasons, but it is indicative of the 26-year-old’s attitude that he accepted his manager’s decision. Replacement Liam Cooper put in a fine performance at centre-back, as if Jansson’s calming influence remained on the field, even if he himself was absent.

The defender’s passion for Leeds United is evidenced by his honesty and willingness to embrace the fans, particularly after matches. On and off the field, he has been a galvanizing figure amid a turbulent time for the club.