‘Relentless energy’ – Beckford makes claim about what Leeds can achieve this season
Former Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford said the sky is the limit for the club under Marcelo Bielsa in the Premier League this season.
Beckford left the club back in 2010 to join Everton and has been very impressed with his former side.
Leeds are currently just six points off the top of the table with a game in hand and face Leicester City at Elland Road on Monday night.
Speaking to The i, Beckford praised Leeds’ strong mentality and togetherness and said their intensity allowed them to impress in the Premier League.
“Leeds haven’t struggled with the Premier League because they play with such a high tempo anyway,” Beckford said.
“It’s a possession-based game based on work-rate, relentless energy and a really strong mentality and togetherness. How far can they go this season? The sky’s the limit.”
Impressive record
While Beckford played for the club back in the its League One days, he had an impressive record and his form earned him a move to the Premier League with Everton.
With 84 in 147 appearances, he deserves to be remembered fondly by the clubs fans and was unfortunate to play for the club in a time where they were struggling.
With regards to Leeds form this season, they have been incredibly impressive, winning three matches from their opening six and generating 10.6 expected goals already, the fourth highest in the division (via FBRef).
Players such as Patrick Bamford, Luke Ayling and Kalvin Phillips have all managed the step up to the Premier League impressively, while summer signings Rodrigo and Robin Koch are looking increasingly comfortable.
Maintaining this form will be difficult and plenty of clubs have had unexpectedly good starts to the year, but Leeds have certainly put themselves on the map.
In other Leeds news, MOT View: How Bielsa found the perfect role for out of position Leeds United star