Source: Telegraph
Jermaine Beckford still has 'massive role' to play in Leeds' promotion push
Grayson's side thrived in Beckford's absence to surge into the second automatic promotion slot above Millwall as his replacement Luciano Becchio, struck either side of fellow front-runner Max Gradel's flashing header to invigorate Leeds' push for the Championship.[LNB]'It is a big decision to leave out your leading goal-scorer for the last couple of years,' Grayson said. 'He has been a fantastic goal-scorer for the club but in the last few weeks his confidence has been a bit low.[LNB] Related ArticlesCarlisle 1 Leeds United 3Beckford transfer saga 'unsettled Leeds'Leeds' fall, rise and fall againLeeds players 'must raise their game'League One tableLeague One fixtures'Luciano and Max were a real handful for thee Carlisle back four and could have had a hat-trick each, If Jermaine remains on the bench from now until the end of the season it proves that other two are doing their job.[LNB]'But Jermaine will have a massive role to play whether it be from the bench or starting. Just because he didn't start tonight doesn't mean he won't start at Gillingham on Saturday? When people see Jermaine on the bench it can be a worrying sign because to have that sort of firepower lined up is a big bonus.[LNB]'He was disappointed but he accepted my decision and he will learn from this barren spell and hopefully it will do him good. He knows he has not played as well as he can do.' Becchio vindicated Grayson's selection when he was first to react after goalkeeper Adam Collin surprisingly spilled Robert Snodgrass' curling 25-free-kick in the 13th minute and the Argentine forward slotted the ball in from close range.[LNB]Richard Keogh stooped to nod former Leeds defender Harte's free-kick past the impressive Shane Higgs in the 43rd minute but there was no stopping the visitors thanks to the high-energy forwards and Gradel restored the visitors lead two minutes after the break, powerfully heading in Leigh Bromby's cross.[LNB]Becchio doubled the lead three minutes later when he raced clear from the half-way line before confidently tucking away a low left-footed shot beneath Collin for his 15th goal this term following Gradel's through-ball before Beckford entered the fray for a late cameo.[LNB]
