A marker that the international Iliya Gruev will start the new season in England, as he finished the last one – in the starting line-up of “Leeds”, came from the dress rehearsal for the Yorkshiremen.
In front of 32,973 spectators at Elland Road, the Yorkshiremen beat the Spanish elite Valencia 2:1 in control.
Gruev plays alongside Ethan Ampadu in German manager Daniel Farke’s defensive midfield pairing.
The 24-year-old Bulgarian performed at a solid level, and took several corners.
In one of them, Joe Roden headed Gruev’s cross into the net, but goalkeeper Dimitrievski.
Ilia was replaced in the 64th minute by new signing Joe Rothwell.
Then the result was 2:0 after the goals of Matteo Joseph (14) and Jorginho Rüter (41).
Martin Techon scored an honorable mention in the 89th minute.
Next Saturday, “Leeds” hosts “Portsmouth” to start the season in the Championship (II level of English football).