Leeds United are in terrific shape as they enjoy a well-deserved vacation from Championship play during the international break. With 11 games played, the Whites sit fifth in the league table, and after defeating Bristol City last time out to win back-to-back games for the first time this season, they’re only looking up.
Leeds are now nine points behind the top two, but they know they are more than capable of bridging that gap if they can generate some momentum over the winter months. Leeds Live evaluates United’s debut to Championship life thus far.
Students of note include Georginio Rutter, Joe Rodon, Ethan Ampadu, Archie Gray, and Sam Byram.
Liam Cooper, Joe Gelhardt, and Leo Hjelde all require work.
Report: In the middle of a difficult transfer window, Leeds struggled to get going in the Championship at first, picking up only two points from their first three games. Draws at Elland Road against Cardiff City and West Bromwich Albion will be forgotten quickly given the circumstances, as will the setback at Birmingham City, when Farke was unable to name a full bench.
Leeds have turned a turnaround since their victory over Ipswich Town on August 26, with new acquisitions giving the squad a comfortable and fresh vibe. In the seven games since that day at Portman Road, the Whites have averaged two points each game, helping them to ascend the league ladder.
Millwall and Watford were easily handled, while last week’s victories over QPR and Bristol City demonstrated Leeds’ character in bouncing back after their first true setback and reality check against Southampton.
What’s working: Leeds appear to be making progress in all areas as they continue to respond to Farke’s wishes and adapt to his style of play. Possession retention appears to have improved, while Leeds’ defensive improvements have been highlighted by five clean sheets in the last seven games.
Leeds appear to be confident as a team, controlling the tempo and direction of most games, while creativity in the final third has been a regular theme. However, the success of their recruitment has been critical to Leeds’ rise.
Ampadu, Rodon, Byram, and Joel Piroe have been crucial performers, while others have proven to be more than adequate.Things to improve: There’s no doubt about it, Leeds need to work on making their dominance pay and being clinical. The season is just 11 games old but Leeds have spurned golden opportunities in a host of games and if they are to compete with runaway leaders Leicester City and Ipswich Town, they need to make sure they’re putting their chances away.
That will also assist with consistency in results, with Leeds putting two wins together for the first time just last week.
Potential: It’s difficult to find a Leeds United fan who isn’t optimistic about the club’s future. The Whites may be trailing the current automatic promotion pace, but with momentum rising, things are only getting better.
There’s still a long way to go, and credentials will be tested in the coming weeks with visits to Norwich City and Leicester, but Leeds are showing all the signs that they’ll be right up there come the end of the season.
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