It would be a bit of an overstatement to suggest that Leeds’ season has been thrown into turmoil following a bout of poor performances, but things certainly aren’t looking as rosy as they once were.
On and off defeats in the league have slowed their progress, and a recent loss at home against leaders Norwich has really put their frail position into perspective. Indeed, with a host of teams now breathing down their necks, each hungry for one of two priceless automatic spots, every game from now carries indescribable significance.
Here are two remaining games we believe will define Leeds’ season.
Middlesborough 09/02/2019
Middlesborough isn’t an easy place to go to at the best of times, however it will be especially difficult now given their turn of form and Leeds’ minor capitulation.
From a tactical point of view as well, we’ve got to say that Pulis may, against all standards of attractive modern football, have the edge on this one. They’ll be typically solid at the back and in midfield and look to frustrate an already agitated Leeds United side, who will be mourning their defeat against Norwich at the weekend.
Alarmingly Bielsa has seen his team concede two or more goals in eight out of nine previous games so if he wants his team to really push on he’ll need to address these issues before their away trip.
Bristol City 09/03/2019
Forget Norwich, Bristol City could well be Leeds’ biggest opponents in a months time.
Bristol have catapulted themselves into 6th place following an unbeaten run of 11 games and are now well and truly in the mixture for a playoff spot. And we are wondering just how long it will take before Leeds, who will be truly tested in the coming weeks, drop down from their pedestal and find themselves in the bear pit.
There’s a huge amount of difference in pressure these two teams will be feeling heading into this game, and with Ashton Gate an awkward place to travel, especially with the wind in their sails, Bristol City could really make an impact on standings at the end of the season.
