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Leeds news: Pontus Jansson ‘close to killing’ Samuel Saiz
LEEDS UNITED defender Pontus Jansson has revealed his major gripe with attacking midfielder Samuel Saiz.
Leeds United signed Samuel Saiz for £3million in the summer
Saiz, a summer signing from Spanish outfit Huesca, has emerged as a fans’ favourite after scoring nine goals in 19 appearances but Jansson hits the roof when he gives away possession in dangerous positions.
When asked how good his team-mate is, Jansson replied: “Last season it was just Pablo [Hernandez] but this season we have Samu and Alioski too.
“Although I am close to killing him sometimes when he loses the ball just outside of our box!”
Jansson, who completed a permanent move to Elland Road in the summer, also admitted he hates coming up against Saiz in training.
Asked who he doesn’t like defending against on the practice pitch, he said: “Small guys. I don't like going in hard because you hurt them, and small 'kids' are difficult to defend against, like Alioski and Samu Saiz.”
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Last season it was just Pablo [Hernandez] but this season we have Samu and Alioski too
Sweden international Jansson also revealed why he wears gloves in most games.
“I hate to have frozen fingers,” he told Sky Bet. “But it's a bit of superstition as well.
“I started doing it last year and I played well.”
One of English football’s notable quirks is the hectic Christmas fixture list.
Pontus Jansson doesn't like facing Samuel Saiz in training
Jansson, who came through the ranks at Swedish club Malmo, got his first taste of festive action during his loan spell with Leeds last season.
Despite missing out on a break, Jansson admits the flurry of games is a necessary evil.
“There was a nice atmosphere around the game but in Sweden I'd usually be drunk on December 31,” he said.
“But we have to fit 46 games in so it would be even harder with a winter break.”