Leeds United have a lot to be fixed before Norwich playoff clash after Southampton defeat – Phil Hay
Phil Hay believes that Daniel Farke has a lot to fix with Leeds United’s performances before they face Norwich in the playoff semi-finals.
Speaking on The Square Ball podcast (6 May), The Athletic journalist was reacting immediately after the Whites’ 2-1 defeat to Southampton on the final day of the season, which saw them condemned to the playoffs as Ipswich clinched the second automatic promotion spot.
Hay was asked what needs to change to get the team back performing as they were prior to the March international break, and he admitted that it feels as though the team has “hit the black ice”.
“There was a lot I felt in that performance that needs [to be] fixed and needs [to be] remedied before the playoff semi-final,” he said.
“That’s not to say Farke can’t do it, because Leeds have been much better previously in the season than they are currently, but they’ve definitely, definitely hit the black ice a bit.”
Leeds United must improve or face another Championship campaign
There is absolutely no doubt whatsoever that if Leeds play against Norwich the way they played against QPR and Southampton, then they won’t be getting promoted.
So it’s on Farke to find a solution to the problems the team are facing, but it’s also on the players to actually turn up as nobody is currently playing well.
Illan Meslier is conceding goals freely, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter’s goals and assists have dried up and Patrick Bamford’s injury problems have started flaring up again.
But this is a team that beat Norwich home and away in the regular season, so they know how to get it done and over two legs they should feel confident in their abilities.
The promotion dream isn’t over and they are more than capable of finding success, but Hay is bang on the money. They have to do more and there are big issues that need to be fixed.
In other Leeds news, the 49ers wanted to appoint an ex-Chelsea boss before Farke arrived as Phil Hay shares new sack verdict after Southampton loss.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.