Pascal Struijk on Ethan Ampadu, the Belgium defender singled out his captain as one of the squad’s most vital yet overlooked performers. Speaking ahead of Leeds’ Premier League clash with Bournemouth, Struijk highlighted the work Ampadu does off the ball and off the pitch, insisting his leadership qualities have been crucial to Daniel Farke’s side.
Ampadu, who cost £10 million from Chelsea in 2023, has been a revelation since arriving at Elland Road. While Leeds’ big-money summer signing Jaka Bijol was expected to demote Struijk to the bench, the vice-captain has thrived in the starting XI, forming part of a defensive unit marshalled vocally by Ampadu. Despite missing games through injury earlier this season, Ampadu’s influence has been profound.
FotMob currently rate the Wales international as Leeds’ third-best player in the campaign so far, behind Anton Stach and goalkeeper Karl Darlow. Yet Struijk insists the data does not fully capture his impact — pointing instead to his communication, organisation, and personality in guiding teammates.
Pascal Struijk Ethan Ampadu praise
Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, Struijk explained exactly why his skipper deserves more recognition:
“He’s a really good player. Especially, if you look, it’s not always on the ball. What isn’t always appreciated is what he does off the ball, vocally what he does, speaking with the ref, speaking here and there to teammates, before the game, after the game. The leadership that he has, as a personality, it’s amazing for the team.” — Pascal Struijk
Struijk noted that Ampadu’s ability to connect both ends of the pitch is invaluable: “For me, it’s hard to shout to the strikers, but he can and he’s good at it.”
Ampadu’s influence by the numbers
Ampadu’s impact can be measured not only in leadership but also in results. The Wales international recently matched a club record set by Leeds great Allan Clarke — reaching 50 wins in his first 81 games.
Since his arrival, Leeds have consistently performed better with Ampadu in the team than without:
| Season | Games with EA | Games without EA | PPG with EA | PPG without EA | Clean Sheets with EA | Clean Sheets without EA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24-25 | 32 | 17 | 2.22 | 1.88 | 59% | 41% |
| 25-26 | 3 | 3 | 2.00 | 0.33 | 33% | 0.33% |
source: club match data – 23 September 2025
The contrast is stark: Leeds are significantly more effective with Ampadu anchoring midfield.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Ampadu is Leeds’ most important player after Anton Stach:
“Ampadu’s leadership and defensive discipline are exactly what promoted sides need to establish themselves in the Premier League. His numbers show Leeds are harder to beat when he plays, but his unseen influence — communication, calmness, positional play — is what makes him special. Struijk’s comments reflect the respect he has inside the dressing room.”
William added: “Tying him down to a new contract must be a priority for Leeds. At just 25, he can anchor the side for years to come.”
Key insights
- Struijk praised Ampadu’s unseen leadership and vocal influence.
- Ampadu recently matched Allan Clarke’s record of 50 wins in 81 games.
- Stats show Leeds earn far more points with Ampadu in the side.
- The Wales international cost £10m and has been one of Farke’s smartest signings.
- Both Ampadu and Struijk are entering the final two years of their contracts.
What’s next for Leeds and Ampadu?
Leeds host Bournemouth this weekend, with Farke’s men looking to build on their positive form. Ampadu is expected to captain the side again, reinforcing his growing importance both on and off the pitch.
With just under two years left on his deal, the club are under pressure to open talks over an extension. If Leeds can secure his long-term future, Ampadu could cement himself as the heartbeat of the team’s Premier League journey.
👉 Do you agree with Struijk — is Ethan Ampadu Leeds’ most underappreciated star?
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