Leeds United head coach Jesse Marsch has heaped praise on Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira, although he has admitted that he "had to hate" the Frenchman when the pair were managerial rivals in the MLS.
Marsch enjoyed a successful spell in charge of the New York Red Bulls between 2015 and 2018, while Vieira spent two years as head coach at New York City FC between 2016 and 2018.
Both managers locked horns on several occasions in the MLS and at times had heated exchanges, with Vieira sent off after refusing to shake Marsch's hand following a 4-1 defeat in July 2016.
Marsch and Vieira are set to reunite their rivalry on Monday night when Crystal Palace play host to Leeds at Selhurst Park, and the American has since stated that his French counterpart is a "very good" coach who "belongs" in the Premier League.
"When [Vieira] first made the decision to come to MLS we were all excited to have his stature in the league. I had to hate him in NYC. Not an easy guy to hate. From expertise and work perspective he's very good coach," Marsch told reporters on Friday.
"We had differing styles and ways of thinking about the game. Made for interesting matches. Heated moments, but over time we grew to respect each other.
"One friend in common was [Gerard] Houllier and he was there to bring us together in these derby matches.
"I followed [Vieira] at Nice and thought he did a good job there. Great to see him in the Premier League. Where he belongs. [He is] clear with how he wants to play. Very good with his players. All players have massive respect for him.
"Good manager. Big challenge on the day. We know each other pretty well. Little bit clash of styles, but an opportunity for me and our team to test ourselves."
Leeds have won three and drawn one of their last four matches in the Premier League, while Crystal Palace has lost their last three games across all competitions.
Oliver Thomas
