Marcelo Bielsa casts verdict over Mateusz Klich's recent Leeds United form

Marcelo Bielsa believes that Mateusz Klich's slight drop in form for Leeds United is only natural.

The Whites attacking midfielder has been a permanent fixture at Elland Road since the Argentine's arrival in West Yorkshire nearly three seasons ago.

Klich started 92 consecutive games under Bielsa's watch as he helped the club back to the Premier League at the second time of asking under Bielsa.

The 30-year-old was dropped for the final game at Derby County last summer after promotion was secured before starting another run of consecutive starts in the Premier League.

Klich, though, was ousted from the United line-up for the first time ahead of a late January clash with Newcastle United following a dip in form.

The Poland international has bagged three goals and five assists across 22 appearances in his debut top flight campaign with Leeds.

After being a late substitute against the Magpies he again took up a spot on the bench at Leicester City but an injury to Rodrigo saw an early introduction for the playmaker.

In the Spaniard's absence he has again returned to his usual starting berth and a good showing against Crystal Palace on Monday helped restore faith in his abilities.

Bielsa - who was speaking ahead of this weekend's trip to face Arsenal in the capital - admits that Klich's recent up and down showings are to be expected from any player.

"It’s very difficult to maintain your level in a competition that's so long and so competitive," Bielsa conceded.

"Of course, players have highs and lows, which is natural. It’s true in the game against Crystal Palace, Klich looked more like the player he is."