Jesse Marsch reveals specific Leeds United target he set on Elland Road arrival - YEP 15/5/22
The Leeds United head coach reveals he pinpointed fixtures against Brighton and Hove Albion and Brentford upon taking the job
By Joe Donnohue
Jesse Marsch designated Leeds United's two upcoming fixtures
as winnable matches upon taking the Elland Road job two-and-a-half months ago.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Friday,
Marsch reflected on his brief time in charge at the club, comparing his
experience of Leeds to that of the players who have been with the team for
several years.
I have no doubts, I believe in our group and we'll make sure
we regenerate and be ready for Sunday," Marsch said.
"For me it's the last 10 games, for them it's four
years, many of them together, and we'll use these moments to make sure we're
ready to be at our very best."
Leeds' two remaining games pit the team against sides who
are already safe from relegation and will not trouble the European qualification
places, but Marsch insisted Brighton and Brentford will not be 'on the beach'.
He also revealed his personal target upon taking the role in
late February, pinpointing these last two fixtures as matches in which Leeds
must pick up points.
"All I knew is when I stepped in, I was getting into
the fire," Marsch said.
"When I came in all I tried to do was learn as quickly
as possible to give us the best chance in the last 10-12 matches to have a
chance. I looked at the last two games and thought we'd need results in those
games."
The American's prophecy has been proved true, as Leeds do
need results from their next two outings, starting with Brighton this weekend
at Elland Road.
Marsch's decision to substitute Raphinha in the closing
stages of the 3-0 defeat to Chelsea in midweek was dubbed 'precautionary' by
the head coach.
Many perceived the protective switch as an acknowledgement
that Raphinha would be essential in the games to come, and therefore should be
protected by being withdrawn from the game.
Leeds host Graham Potter's Seagulls at Elland Road from 2pm
on Sunday afternoon.
