Rutter played a significant role in Leeds’ deserving 3-0 victory over the Hornets at Elland Road on Saturday, September 23, which allowed them to move into the Championship play-off zone.
Farke made a point of approaching the 21-year-old on the field as the Elland Road home crowd toasted Rutter and his teammates.
Smyth noted this in his match review for the Yorkshire Evening Post on September 23: “Farke made a beeline for the club’s record signing at the full-time whistle.”
The Whites’ high-profile January acquisition contributed to two of his team’s three goals, including the late goal by replacement Jaidon Anthony.
X-Factor
Rutter may not have scored against Watford individually, but his outstanding performance made sure the home crowd got their money’s worth.
Only teammate Daniel James (four) managed more vital passes from players on both sides than the France U21 international, whose total of seven dribbles was unsurpassed.
WhoScored.
Rutter has the talent to help Leeds get an immediate return to the Premier League, despite the fact that he can occasionally be irritating to watch, especially when he blows decent chances and tries tricks that don’t work.
It will be very difficult to defend the amount Leeds paid Hoffenheim, which might rise to £36 million.
But Rutter once again demonstrated against Watford that he had the “X-Factor,” and hopefully more of the same is yet to come.
