Paul Merson says Harry Wilson is a good signing for Leeds United but believes his debut left plenty of room for improvement. The Whites opened their season with a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, with Anton Stach's late goal the difference.
Merson urges caution despite win
Merson, though, believes supporters should remain calm, pointing out the performance left plenty to be desired, while offering an assessment of two of their new signings. "Great result for Leeds but don't get carried away, it wasn't great," he said.
On Wilson, who signed a free-transfer deal with the Elland Road club after a successful stint with Fulham, Merson feels his set-play prowess could help his new club this season. He felt his bow for his new employers wasn't anything to write home about, however.
Wilson's debut assessment
"He did all right, he wasn't great," Merson added. "A couple of good balls in, he scored a goal that was offside. He did all right for his debut. First real game. I think he's a good signing for them, anybody on a free is a good signing. Because I don't see them opening up teams every week, and I think you need that set play."
One player he was particularly impressed with was James Trafford. Trafford kept his first clean sheet for the club after a big-money move from Manchester City in the summer.
Trafford earns praise
Merson believes the stopper has a confidence about him that will hold Leeds in good stead. Merson said: "I think Trafford, big fan of Trafford, though he had that composure, he's got confidence about him, comes out for balls at the right time, didn't look panicky."
"What a bonus for Leeds, you always need a good goalkeeper, he'll save you points, made a couple of good saves today, just when the pressure was on he'd come out, collect the ball, no dramas. Just done what it said on the tin."
Farke was happy with all his debutants against Forest, including Tarik Muharemovic, who also made his bow. "I am very happy because they have big boots to fill," Farke said.
"Trafford is a good player but he hasn't played that many Premier League games, Tarik too. So they both shined and showed why we agreed to sign them, but the whole group was excellent today. Wilson too was excellent. The vibe and mood is good around the place."
