Leeds United were once again punished for not taking their chance in Saturday’s game against Fulham. The Whites have now scored just two goals in five games in all competitions.
Daniel Farke pushed for attacking reinforcements in the late end of the window, but the club failed to deliver any big signings. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who was one of the summer signings, was handed his first league start. And he showed his rustiness as he failed to convert the best chances of the game. Farke had this to say after the narrow loss away from home:
“Heartbroken and I feel for the players of course,” said Farke (via the YEP).
“It was an excellent away performance. We were the better side in a tight first half, a shot against the crossbar. Of course with the substitutions Fulham were a bit under pressure to take more risks, they had more possession and put more pressure on us.
“We allowed not one real chance, sometimes perhaps a strike from 25 yards.
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Leeds United boss speaks on Fulham star
Daniel Farke
Credit: Imago Images
Aside losing by a painful own goal, the key thing that separated the two sides was the quality of the substitutions. Marco Silva brought on new signing Kevin, who turned the game on its head by providing pace and directness. He eventually won the corner that lead to the goal that decided the game.
In the post match press-conference, the Leeds boss highlighted the importance of having quality signings like Kevin coming off the bench. Leeds failed to bring in any quality attacking pieces outside two free transfers and Noah Okafor for £18million.
“No [not a surprise] because if you spend so much money you know what you get,” said Farke.
“This is why I was so much on it to add quality to our offence. If you’re capable to bring such a player you can inspire the whole stadium. This is the difference quality can make. I was aware of his quality, the only bad thing is we certainly couldn’t afford him.”
Daniel Farke played all his cards on Saturday – starting Okafor and Calvert-Lewin, and even playing Aaronson, but Leeds still struggled in front of goal. Maybe the club should have made a signing on deadline day.
