Danny Mills says it could all fall apart for Leeds United in play-offs if this happens on Thursday night
Danny Mills says Leeds United will fall apart against Norwich City in Thursday night’s play-off semi-final second leg at Elland Road if they crumble under pressure.
Speaking on talkSPORT [16 May, 08:49am], Mills told Alan Brazil and Gabby Agbonlahor that Daniel Farke’s team must remain resolute under pressure at a nervy and expectant Elland Road.
Mills played for both sides involved in the semi-final tie, and recalled his experiences of playing in front of a buoyant Elland Road crowd when the pressure is cranked up.
“It’s about who can handle pressure better. Elland Road is one of the best atmospheres I’ve ever played in when it’s rocking,” the former England defender said.
“When you’re playing well, it’s second to none. But that comes with added pressure. Can Leeds deal with the pressure?
“They struggled towards the end of the season, their home form has been great and Norwich’s away form has been terrible. Everything points at a Leeds win, but I’ve seen them in the play-offs before – in a couple of minutes, it can all fall apart very quickly. I hope they don’t crumble.”
Leeds United must prove the doubters wrong
The notion of Leeds United supporters denying they’re favourites for Thursday’s game is an understandable grounding mechanism, after the catastrophic play-off semi-final against Derby County in 2019.
Promotion was labelled as non-negotiable last summer following Leeds’ relegation from the Premier League, and the Whites looked firmly on course for an immediate return until four defeats in their last six Championship games.
This is a huge burden on Daniel Farke’s shoulders, too. The German secured promotion twice with his opponents during his time at Carrow Road, and must repeat the feat to stay in favour of the Leeds hierarchy, who will be there in their numbers.
An early goal for Leeds will certainly settle nerves – Mills noted leading at half-time as being a key factor in a positively charged Elland Road atmosphere.
But Norwich will be out to spoil the party – it’s a 90-minute lottery and David Wagner’s side could look to spring a surprise.
In other Leeds news, Georginio Rutter’s position has come into focus at a key time.
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