Leeds United have started the New Year in the best way possible; fans are now very optimistic heading into the second half of the season after what has happened in recent weeks.
The team have completed such a remarkable turnaround in the last month. Over a month ago, no one would have given the Whites a chance of survival – they were lurking in the relegation zone and Daniel Farke was on the brink of being sacked.
Since the defeat to Manchester City, something has changed in this team – they have gone six games unbeaten. The most impressive part is how they have been able to topple big clubs along the way. Farke’s men have been able to beat Chelsea and Crystal Palace in recent games. Their new 3-5-2 formation is working wonders, and the players have also stepped up in this run; including Dominic Calvert-Lewin who has been unstoppable these past few weeks.
Sean Longstaff set for Leeds United return
What most people forget is how the club has been doing all this without Sean Longstaff. The summer signing worked his way into being a key cog for the team for most of the early part of the season. But an injury has seen him miss over a month of action. In Monday’s press conference, Farke revealed that the midfielder is close to his return:
“With Sean, my plan was to involve him for the first time in the FA Cup, but Sean is an important player on and off the pitch, to have his personality in the dressing room is important, each and every day of training for him is beneficial.
“He was involved with the group on Sunday. Let’s see who is available, Ethan Ampadu is available which is important.
“He has perhaps a chance to be involved again, perhaps for a few minutes. Not 90.”
Daniel Farke receives a huge boost
With the depth options in the squad struggling to stay fit, there is a lot of good news with Longstaff returning. The former Newcastle United man will bring some legs into midfield going forward. He has been a dynamic option in the park; contributing to attack and defence.
His impact since joining the Whites has been great, and if he can play at the level he was before his injury, Leeds will really benefit. Having a player like him available in the second half of the season is a great boost to the club’s survival hopes.
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