Seven positives for Leeds United fans to cling to in Premier League relegation scrap - YEP 12/3/22
All isn't well but all is not lost for Leeds United, far from it.
By Graham Smyth
The manner of the Aston Villa defeat had alarm bells ringing
even louder as the mood at Elland Road took a turn in the wrong direction, yet
there are still positives if you look hard enough.
Patrick Bamford
The sharp turn that led Bamford to winning a foul from John
McGinn was a little reminder of the intelligence of Leeds' returning striker.
He's going to be so important. Leeds have missed him so badly, even just to be
in the right place in the area when crosses come in. If they get him fully fit
it will be huge for Leeds.
Illan Meslier
He showed again against Aston Villa the shot-stopping
prowess that helped him impress so much last season. He hasn't been as good
this season but the team hasn't been protecting him well either. Meslier
remains a huge talent.
Form elsewhere
Norwich City are on a losing streak every bit as bad as
Leeds', Everton look in real trouble, Watford were a mess against Wolves and
Burnley are still inconsistent. Leeds just have to finish above three of them.
It's not a plan, but it's a reality and it's still likely there will be three
worse teams.
Help is on the way dear
Kalvin Phillips is on his way back, at long last, Liam
Cooper too. Cooper will bring leadership and, if he can be as solid as he was
last season, that will help immensely at the back. Phillips will help protect
the backline and his mobility in the midfield will be key. Leeds just have to
hope the system suits him, but he did more than okay in a central pair for
England last year.
Heads still above water
Despite this dreadful run and playing very much like a team
bound for the drop, Leeds remain on the right side of the relegation zone so
their fate remains in their own hands. There is a worse situation to be in.
The break
Jesse Marsch will get time to further implement his ideas
and work with the squad during the international break. Not all of his players
will be around but some will and that time will also allow him to get Phillips
closer and closer to match action. Players carrying knocks will be able to
recover. It will be a much-needed breather.
The kids
Joe Gelhardt has lost none of his boyish confidence or
cheek, as his long distance shot against Villa proved. He's still trying to
take players on and doesn't appear to be tainted or demoralised by what has
been going on around him. In Crysencio Summerville, Charlie Cresswell and Lewis
Bate Marsch has other options from the bench who will be fresh and prepared to
inject energy if called upon.
