Leeds United desperately need a change before the international break, as Daniel Farke’s side has endured a frustrating run of results that has left supporters increasingly anxious.
The Whites have struggled to turn performances into victories, and their problems in the final third have become particularly concerning. Saturday’s defeat at Bournemouth only added to the frustration, and considerable pressure is now on Leeds to respond when Tottenham visit Elland Road.
There is a feeling that the fixture could be an important moment in the season, not necessarily because of the consequences for the manager or the club’s Premier League status, but because a positive result could lift the mood around Elland Road.
One prominent Leeds journalist has now explained why the upcoming contest carries such significance.
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Pope explains why Tottenham game feels so important
Speaking on the Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet podcast, BBC Radio Leeds journalist Adam Pope admitted that Saturday’s meeting with Tottenham feels like a must-win for Leeds.
“It’s a long time since Leeds have won; I get that”, he said.
Pope also highlighted an uncomfortable comparison that has emerged during Leeds’ recent struggles, with Coventry having won more games than the Whites despite sitting below them in the table.
“And someone suddenly said, ‘Coventry have won more games than Leeds’. Yes, but Coventry are below Leeds”, he added.
“So, when you get that, that’s why I mean Saturday sort of feels like a must-win.
“Because it sounds like the vibes, everybody needs a lift going into the break. They definitely do.”
The journalist was careful to explain that he was not suggesting Farke’s position or Leeds’ survival prospects depended on the result.
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Leeds need to give supporters something to believe in
Pope believes Leeds will ultimately be fine in their battle to remain in the Premier League, but acknowledged that the atmosphere around the club needs improving.
“I don’t mean it’s a must-win in the sense of anybody’s future or anything like that, or Leeds’ safety in the division. I still think they will be fine”, he explained.
“But there is a big feeling that they have got to win and get everybody just feeling positive again before we restart after the break.”
That is arguably the biggest issue facing Farke. Leeds have collected too many disappointing results recently, and the lack of attacking threat has made it difficult for supporters to see where the next victory is coming from.
Tottenham will provide a difficult test, but Elland Road could be an important factor if Leeds manage to start positively and give the home crowd something to get behind.
Three points would not solve all of their problems, but it would provide a much-needed lift before the international break. Just as importantly, it would give Farke some breathing space and allow his players to return with renewed confidence.
