It has been a rollercoaster of a season for Leeds United so far. After enjoying a superb start to the 2022/23 campaign which saw them pick up seven points from a possible nine, the Whites went on an eight-game winless run.
Jesse Marsch’s side ended their poor run of results with a superb 2-1 win over Liverpool at Anfield. Nonetheless, Marsch and his players currently find themselves 15th in the Premier League table during the World Cup break, following a run of four wins, three draws and seven defeats since the start of the season.
That said, here are three things we have learnt from Leeds United’s season so far.
#Leeds’ position doesn’t portray the right picture
Jesse Marsch came under a lot of criticism from a certain section of fans after his team endured an eight-game winless run that started in mid-August, but the truth is Leeds United have been at the wrong end of many results.
There have been instances where Leeds United have played well and controlled the game but have failed to get over the line for some or other reason. Much to Marsch’s frustration, some of the results have been harsh and unfair to take on the chin, leading to the Whites’ dropping a lot of points.
However, the unity, performance levels and mentality of the players over the course of the season prove that the team are supportive of Marsch and his methods.
#A clear identity
Jesse Marsch’s early days of his appointment back in March last season were often difficult to watch as the American manager looked to implement his style of play at Leeds United.
Starting initially with a 4-2-2-2 set-up, Marsch has gone for a commonly used 4-2-3-1, which is giving his side more control and balance in the middle of the park and in attack. The high-pressing, direct and vertical passing towards the forward players remains a fundamental principle of Marsch’s methods, but with more time now spent with this squad as well as new players arriving over the summer that are suited to the intense system, one can easily see the difference.
There are more layers to come in Marsch’s style of play before Leeds United become a more organised pressing team.
#Lack of defensive organisation
Playing an attractive brand of football and entertaining the fans is no doubt important in football. Scoring goals is also important.
Despite somewhat achieving both of those things so far this season, Leeds United’s poor defensive organisation could solely earn them a return back to Championship football.
Leeds have the third joint-worst defensive record in the division with 26 goals conceded in 14 games. The number of goals they have conceded have left the defence a lot to be desired. Marsch must find a way to make his defence more resolute and disciplined, as the Whites leaked 13 goals in their last five league games.
And since Leeds have kept just one clean sheet, the American manager will be looking to improve those numbers and shut the opposition more often when the season resumes.