Former Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson believes that manager Marcelo Bielsa must be backed by Victor Orta and the club's board to turn the Whites into a "force."

Robinson reacts

The Argentinian tactician has done a remarkable job at Elland Road, guiding the club back to the Premier League for the first time since 2004.

On top of this, Bielsa has guided his team to 10th place in the standings, winning 11 games and scoring 43 goals from 25 games.

Leeds invested heavily into the first-team squad having signed the likes of Rodrigo, Diego Llorente, Raphinja, Helder Costa and Robin Koch - spending a total of £104.63m (via Transfermarkt) last summer.

Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Robinson believes that Bielsa has to be backed by the Leeds board once again to take the team to the next level.

“There’s a real rapport with Bielsa and Leeds United, it seems like he’s finally found somewhere where he’s really enjoying working and that he’s got a real tie to. He’s having to spend a lot of time away from his family but he’s a workaholic and it’s something that he seems to have a real passion for.

“He’s found a home at Leeds and I think the feeling’s mutual. He only ever signs 12-month contracts and that always gives him the option to leave but he’s talking about players for next season and he’s already planning a new assault on the Premier League.

“He can see what he’s got already and with new investment for the team, if he gets a decent budget then he can really turn Leeds into a force next season."

Transfer Tavern Verdict

It is great to see the ambition that Leeds are showing to get back to the glory days, but Robinson is spot on - the club cannot afford to rest on their laurels.

If they can finish inside the top 10 this season, there is no reason why they can't aim for the European places during the 2021/22 campaign.

While this year has provided a solid foundation - 2022 could be a huge year for Leeds United.

In other news, Phil Hay goes into detail on Leeds United's summer transfer plans.