Tim Sherwood shares Leeds United ‘Burden’ live on Sky Sports
Leeds United approach their upcoming all-Yorkshire clash with Sheffield United in fine form.
The Championship top two collide at Bramall Lane under the lights on Monday night (24 February), with the winner retaining top spot after this round of fixtures.
Leeds would take one massive stride towards a Premier League return with three points on the night, having shown a ruthless streak of attacking football in recent weeks and months.
Sherwood admits Leeds United fan ‘burden’
With performance comes further pressure and Leeds United knew, as favourites to win the Championship title from the first kick of the season, they were expected to perform.
So far, they have relished that pressure and put on a thrilling show for the Elland Road crowd, who remain anxious to claw themselves back out of the second tier and into the big time.
Tim Sherwood, speaking on Sky Sports (22 February, 12:34), admitted the pressure from supporters can be a “burden”, but Leeds are dealing with that anticipation in the best way possible so far.
The former Tottenham and Aston Villa manager also branded Monday a “cup final” between the two rival outfits.
“I really don’t see anyone stopping them now. I saw them last year and the energy from the fans that’s so good when they’re winning, but becomes a burden when the expectancy is there,” he said.
“You can play off that as an opposing team and manager, the fact that after an hour that the crowd can get anxious.
“But the fans are with them, the momentum is with them, and [Monday] is the ‘cup final’.”
Sheffield United a potential title decider
While it remains likely both clubs will enjoy Premier League football again next season, having both won their last four, Leeds United will want to secure their place as early as possible at Sheffield United’s expense.
Both Daniel Farke and Chris Wilder know what to expect from what will be a tantalising clash, and neutral supporters watching on will certainly be hoping neither side opts to play conservatively with a fear of defeat.
Leeds’ attacking play, however, has been such that they fear no foe. They put the Blades to the sword back in October at Elland Road with a 2-0 victory, last Monday’s hero Pascal Struijk opening the scoring before Mateo Joseph rounded it off.
Following the Monday night clash, which could well go a long way to deciding the Championship title, Leeds face West Brom at Elland Road to open a crucial period in March.