Leeds United continued their excellent start to the season by beating Nottingham Forest 2-0 at the City Ground to book their place in the third round of the EFL Cup.
Dan James broke the deadlock after half-time before James Justin added a second to put the result beyond doubt and send Daniel Farke’s side comfortably through.
It was Leeds’ second win over Forest in just three days, having already beaten them 1-0 at the same ground in Saturday’s Premier League opener.
Farke will be delighted with the way his side have started the campaign, and Leeds will now turn their attention to Sunday’s clash with Brentford at Elland Road as they look to keep the momentum going.
Read More: Oliver Glasner admits Leeds gulf after second defeat – “Reality hurts”
Troy Deeney goes big with his verdict on Leeds United
The former Watford captain is known for some of his incendiary comments about Leeds. He predicted the Whites to go down under Daniel Farke last season and recently called James Trafford ‘lightweight’.
However, Deeney conceded that Leeds’ acquisition of the England goalkeeper from Manchester City for a club-record fee shows the club’s ambition.
He insisted Leeds are going to be a Premier League force for a little while and does not expect them to be anywhere near the relegation battle this season.
Deeney said on CBS Sports: “They looked like favourites for relegation last year but stayed up very comfortably.
“Made some very notable acquisitions last year and again this year.
“James Trafford for £40m – the most expensive British goalkeeper ever. That’s a big statement of them saying we are going to stay up and we are going to kick on.
“And having these deep cup runs allows them to rotate and keep players fresh.
“Leeds look like they are going to be a Premier League force for a little while.
keep
“They don’t feel like they are going to be in any relegation trouble, at least this season.”
Can Leeds get into Europe?
European football should not be the target for Leeds United this season. The priority has to be establishing themselves in the Premier League and making sure they are nowhere near another relegation battle.
That does not mean Leeds cannot dream a little bigger. The club have shown plenty of ambition in the transfer market this summer and are expected to add more quality before the window closes.
With so many teams around them spending heavily, even a top-half finish would be a significant achievement. But Leeds showed plenty of resilience and character last season, and the squad looks stronger heading into the new campaign.
If a few of the more established sides underperform and an opportunity presents itself, Leeds could find themselves in the conversation. A top-eight finish could potentially be enough for European football, and the Whites could be one of the teams ready to take advantage if the door opens.
What a Muppet
That’s for sure Rodney … I’ve got several other names for half-wit Deeney, but I’d be banned for posting them.