Leeds United v Portsmouth postponement update amid UK riots
Leeds United are confident that their first Championship match against Portsmouth will go ahead amid postponement fears, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
The YEP reported on 6 August that with widespread civil unrest occurring across the country and in West Yorkshire, there have been concerns that the EFL’s opening weekend could be affected.
Although police resources could be stretched and run the risk of postponements, the Whites are not expecting any issues despite a protest and counter-protest occurring in Leeds city centre on 3 August, the same as their 2-1 friendly win over Valencia at Elland Road.
A club spokesman reportedly told the YEP that all officers currently booked for the fixture are still expected to be on duty at Elland Road, and this is not subject to change at this time.
Leeds United hope to avoid unnecessary disruption this weekend
Pre-season so far at Elland Road has gone off without a hitch, with Farke’s squad looking to continue the good form which saw them go just 90 minutes away from promotion last season.
Building on a 90-point league campaign hasn’t been helped by the departures of Crysencio Summerville and Archie Gray, but the money brought in by those transfer is expect to pay for replacements.
Losing two of their best players in one transfer window isn’t ideal, but Farke’s side are unlikely to let either exit affect the strong start they want to make to the new Championship season.
That’s a stark contrast to 12 months ago, which saw United head into the campaign amid chaos as eight players activated clauses in their contracts to leave temporarily (and for free) on short-notice loans.
This time around, Farke has had almost full control over the make-up of his squad going into their Portsmouth opener, with several players standing out in pre-season.
Therefore, given United are well-prepared to avoid the last season’s slow start – which ultimately derailed their automatic promotion bid – they’ll be hoping Saturday’s match will go ahead as planned.
In other Leeds news, the Whites cannot risk stalling on the transfer of an exciting Championship winger after missing out on one of his team-mates.
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