Toothless Leeds defeated

By Andy Baggott
October 25 2004

Leeds slumped to a defeat at the weekend, and are a side devoid of any confidence. Whilst strong at the back, there is no belief at all going forward.

The strikers are struggling, whilst the midfield lacks creativity. It’s hardly surprising – the 4 midfielders are all natural defenders, and it’s beginning to show. To be fair, Blackwell knows the problem but can do little about it with the limited funds available. A creative midfielder, and a striker are a must for the boss, and the sooner the better. Leeds lack a game breaker – someone who can create something from nothing – a moment of genius. In recent years, there was Strachan, who could change a game with an individual piece of skill, Mcallister who would open a game with a pin point pass. Then there was Kewell, who could be quite all game, then destroy the defence, Viduka with a sublime touch or turn or Bowyer, appearing out of nowhere to score. You look at the team at the moment, and you don’t see that. All honest enough players, all workers, and commited, but no one who has that something extra.

Against Brighton, it was all too evident. Plenty of huff and puff, but no real chances. The only goal of the game came when Clark Carlise turned the ball into his own net. The late dismissals of Kilgallon and Butler had no bearing on the result, but will leave Blackwell’s depleted squad even lighter as Killa’s one game, and Butler’s 3 game take effect immediately. Leeds have probably their smallest squad in recent memory, and are now without Butler, Wright, Crainey, Kilgallon, Radebe, Johnson and Bakke. Saturday also saw the end of Ormerods loan, as the striker, who did well without scoring, went back to Southampton.

Leeds need a lift, and a new signing would help. There is also talk of further investment coming into the club, possibly from the U.S. and the sonner some cash is given to KB to strengthen, the better.