Leeds United were a dynamic side last season, in fact they had one of their best ever attacking campaigns under Daniel Farke. And it came under very surprising circumstances.
After losing Crysencio Summerville, Georginio Rutter and Archie Gray, Leeds were not given a huge chance to get promoted. Three of their best players were not going to be available for the whole campaign. But Daniel Farke got two signings he requested for – Manor Solomon and Ao Tanaka.
These two played a crucial rule in the Championship as the Whites clinched promotion in a historic campaign. 100 points, lifting the league title and scoring 95 goals was no easy feat, by Farke saw his team achieve such a huge feat. The tactics and decision making powered the team to the Premier League.
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leeds United midfielders?
Daniel Farke empowers Leeds United dynamic duo
Sean Longstaff Credit: Imago
This summer, Daniel Farke was given his preferred signings in one key area of the pitch. Leeds pushed to sign Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff. The plan was to add some steel and physicality in the midfield to better cope in the Premier League. So far, many can see that the two players are clearly among the best performers this season.
Chances created Leeds Credit: FBref
And it is down to how Farke has set up the team. Stach was known as a dynamic ball winner in Germany who dominated defensive stats, and Longstaff had a reputation for being a potent box-to-box option. This season, both players top chance creation stats for Leeds United. In fact, only Bruno Fernandes, Jack Grealish and Cody Gakpo have more chances than Stach and Longstaff in the Premier League this season.
What that has done for the team
Last season, Daniel Farke primarily relied on wide areas in his build up in attack. But this season, his key difference makers operate in the middle of the park. Longstaff and Stach are the two advanced midfielders ahead of the more defensive Ethan Ampadu. Their ability to win the ball and move up the pitch to create has seen Leeds be one of the more effective teams in transition.
If the club can sign a few more clinical options, this could translate into more goals down the line.
