A nice day out in Cardiff?!

Yes you read the title right.

I’ve never visited Wales for the purpose of Leeds United-related ventures – having thankfully avoided the play-off final a few years back; the expected trouble and subsequent battering on the pitch, never presented itself.

Displayed proudly on their new stadium, a declaration of their title of ‘Family Club of the Year.’

For real?

You could be forgiven for doing a double-take. Cardiff? A nice club? Granted, I’d never been and was making gross generalisations about the club based largely on their past history and general behaviour on more recent trips to Elland Road.

One can only comprehend the surprise when, after being greeted by a large number of stewards outside the stadium, that we were waved inside without so much as a weird look or a pat down search. Even more shocking was the stewards polite and friendly manner when asking me to ‘decant’ my bottle of water into a plastic cup before entering.

Upon entering, a very nice steward approached us, greeted us and pointed out the amenities. That’s never happened before, ever. Even at non-footballing venues.

It’s a shame though that football necessitates a constant need for modernity which once gain bred yet another generic, round, grey cladded lego-like stadium in the middle of a retail park.

The only positive of a retail park in such close proximity is the guaranteed presence of a fast food outlet, such as McDonalds or KFC.

Couldn't decide on a colour? Go for the whole 'B&Q paint samples' look.

Even the ridiculously early start, the long and surprisingly pleasant drive or the strange rendezvous point weren’t spoiling the mood, even though the ‘get the tickets from the back of a van’ seemed extremely unprofessional and unplanned. At least it worked and everyone seemed to get their tickets.

Once inside the ground, we were greeted with swathes of fans who’d stuck to the annual custom of dressing up; being in Wales, it was somewhat inevitable that a good 30odd chose to come as St. George. Other highlights included a blacked up man as Howard from Halifax, a group of Jimmy Saviles, some Oompa Loompas and some pirate wenches.

That’s the beauty of dead rubber matches, ‘we don’t give a fuck!’. With Cardiff almost assured a play-off place and with Leeds having nothing to play for, it was largely expected, given Leeds’ recent form, that the home side would win comfortably.

Neil Warnock was forced into changes again with Darren O’Dea suspended (and having played his last game for the club) and Billy Paynter injured, Alex Bruce, Zac Thompson and Luciano Becchio came into the starting line up.

With Cardiff looking to secure a play off berth, they started brightly with Liam Lawrence forcing an early save out of Andy Lonergran while Ross McCormack should’ve scored at the other end. After Robert Snodgrass won and took the corner, McCormack’s glanced header from eight yards didn’t even test Cardiff stopper David Marshall.

Joe Mason then had a close range shot which he skewed wide and Kenny Miller saw his shot blocked as Cardiff looked the stronger. McCormack forced a good save from Marshall from a free kick before Leeds were dealt a blow.

With 32minutes gone, Leigh Bromby appeared to slip, unopposed; as his studs planted in the turf, his knee went and it was clear it was serious. It was confirmed post match he had snapped the patella tendon in his knee and faces a  considerable amount of time on the sidelines.

Within minutes, the home side had taken the lead. Lonergran had already showcased ‘the star-jump’, more effectively executed by Kasper Schmeichel. Mason ran on to a long through ball from Peter Whittingham and with the Leeds defence slow in reaction and pace, Mason put it beyond the star-jumper for a neat finish.

Cardiff were threatening to increase their lead but this time Lonergran got his angles right and pulled off a fine save from Miller’s angled drive.

Leeds started the second half with confidence as Thompson had a shot blocked by Ben Turner and Becchio headed wide minutes later as the game flowed from end to end.

With Leeds chasing the match, Warnock sent on Danny Webber and Ramon Nunez for Ross McCormack and Adam Clayton but despite Pugh’s long range shot going just wide, Leeds were looking culpable at the back. Lonergran was standing firm though and pulled off a fine save to deny Andrew Taylor.

Leeds were stringing some decent passes together, gone was the hoofball blow outs which have so blighted our eyes in recent matches and most surprisingly, when Leeds did finally score, it was Paul Connolly who provided the most excellent of crosses.

After good work from Snodgrass down the right, Connolly swung the ball in and Becchio was on hand to head the ball into the far corner.

Filip Kiss and Whittingham both had efforts late on but they failed to break down a resilient Leeds who held on for a well deserved point.

Despite their lofty position, the home fans though were extremely quiet and with no competition there, the away fans were left to amuse themselves. Armed with inflatables and a rouge trainer, the Leeds United calypso, Enoch song and other ditties were given a great airing.

Thanks to Adam ( @ken_demange ) for letting Papa Smurf keep me warm.

Oh we do like to be beside the seaside!

A trip to Blackpool is only very rarely about the actual football match.

Even on a cold and windy Tuesday in April, fans go to enjoy the day, as oppose to just enduring the evening (where Leeds are concerned)  and despite the Pleasure Beach being closed, there was plenty to keep the visiting Leeds fans entertained…

After failing in a quest to find any donkeys on the beach, a lucky stumble into ‘The Manchester’ pub completed the afternoon. A group of highly inebriated Leeds fans, as well as some markedly sober ones had seemingly taken over the inappropriately named establishment and surprisingly, Leeds United’s greatest hits were blaring out over the sound system.

Available in all good dustbins.

With the result largely immaterial to Leeds, Neil Warnock called on his team to be ‘party poopers’ as Blackpool looked to cement their place in the play-offs.

Blackpool showed their intent early on, confident in their passing moves, they moved the ball quickly and stretched Leeds with worrying ease although Matt Phillips and Thomas Ince couldn’t find the target as the home side pressed. Robert Snodgrass managed a last gasp tackle to deny Phillips’ cut back while Leigh Bromby and Darren O’Dea were hurling themselves at shots as Blackpool continued to press.

Phillips brought a good save out of Andy Lonergran from close range while at the other end, Ross McCormack finally got clear of the attentions of Stephen Crainey before the former Leeds man tackled McCormack in the box. It was as much of a ‘stone-waller’ as they come yet the official on the near side somehow failed to raise his flag.

Leeds were threatening only from set pieces and Bromby’s long throws and it wasn’t before Snodgrass’ freekick in the second half that Matt Gilks was really tested in the home goal.

Inevitably, Blackpool took the lead as O’Dea was out-muscled and despite Ince failing to control, Angel Martinez was on hand to smash home the loose ball.

It’s hard to dissect Leeds’ recent performances, it’s like building a sandcastle when the tide is coming in; there’s an inevitability of the struggle ahead. Even with Ben Parker and Mika Vayrynen being laid off by the club, we’re just waiting for the season to end. Making a day of it in Blackpool because the football was always going to be a disappointment, it’s a bit sad really but it’s just as well that Leeds travel in such numbers that even a chance encounter with some pissed fans at a random pub can make it all feel worth while.

Looking more closely at any significant happenings during the match, such as O’Dea’s dismissal which I realise I have failed to mention thus far… At least there was no feeling of injustice at the decision of the referee, one ‘Mr Bates’ to brandish a second yellow; even Warnock, he of slating the referees so frequently could have no complaints.

The strangest thing was seeing Crainey keep McCormack firmly in his pocket for the large majority of the first half was a sight to behold; only once beaten for pace, the ginger Scotsman showed more beyond what he’d ever showcased at Elland Road or beyond for Leeds United. Such was his hold over McCormack that Warnock moved wee Ross to the other wing in a bid to get him into the match.

The absence of Michael Brown is not an overly concerning one however Leeds missed his presence, however the opposition were probably thankful they missed any Michael Brown-related presence, especially of it, in them.

The ever-useless and massive waste of money, Danny Pugh was failing to assert himself in any way; continually starting in a reasonable position, only for a Blackpool midfielder to ghost passed him without so much as a flicker. For a central midfielder, or someone playing said position, to make only one telling challenge in 90minutes is pathetic, never mind his penchant for just standing there. At least O’Dea had the ability to stick out his foot a few times.You get the feeling Pugh is more like a rubber band, stretched and stretch until finally it twangs, which is what we saw at Reading. Lets hope that Ken Bates sees Pugh in the same way as Vayrynen and cancels his contract.

Elsewhere, Billy Paynter failed to make the same impact as he did against Peterboro but the continued support of the cumbersome striker never fails to raise a smile. ‘If Billy scores, we’re in the sea!’ cried the away end and when subbed off, the chants turned to ‘We’re not going in the sea, we’re not going in the sea!’

Mercifully, the off field antics of the fans was fan more absorbing than the Leeds performance; from a few rousing renditions of ‘Leeds United Calypso’ to ‘If Billy scores, we’re in the sea’, even the bouncing on the temporary stand was more fun. Even if it made the stand wobble.

Away to our right, during the second half, a few Leeds fans were suddenly outed, leading to various skirmishes and falling over several rows of chairs. Stewards and eventually police rushed in from all sides as one by one, the Leeds fans in the home end stepped up.

Cardiff away on Saturday promises to be even livelier off the pitch. If I don’t turn up to work on Sunday, you’ll know why.

Late Le Fondre goals sink Leeds

'*I'm shitting myself right now*.. 'Sorry MyWarnock..'

It seems to be a never-ending path of disappointment following Leeds United at the moment; even before the impending sacking of Simon Grayson finally arrived, the subsequent results have been pretty dismal.

I might add that’s not me in the ‘Warnock Out!’ brigade, if indeed there already is one but Neil certainly continues to make good impressions regarding the future of the football club.

The visit to Reading felt pretty similar to the effects of the morning after drinking a dozen pints of lager. The Royals have found promotion-winning form and consistency which, after beating Leeds, sent them briefly to the summit of the Championship.

After the dismal showing against Watford in midweek and with injuries and suspensions severly hampering the squad, Warnock made the changes he’d promised as Zac Thompson, Leigh Bromby and Danny Pugh came in for Paul Connolly, Adam Clayton and Aidy White.

Within minutes, Leeds’ predictably suspect defence allowed Noel Hunt and Kaspars Gorkks free headers which mercifully went over. Then, with less than 15 minutes on the clock, young Thompson failed to shepherd the slow ball out of play and lost possession; in desperation to win it back, he lunged clumsily at Jobi McAnuff. The Reading players surrounded the referee and as the melee dispersed, the referee brandished a red card.

Michael Brown, always on hand to provide the proverbial 'FACEPALM'

In real time, the challenge looked late and clumsy and one footed but apparently replays showed otherwise. A rash challenge and a stupid one but from then on, the referee had to base his decisions around it. The referee, presumably pondering Warnock’s post match ‘in your face, ‘what the fuck?’ thought Pugh’s two-footed lunge wasn’t worthy of the same fate despite the challenge being a text-book red.

Ian Harte also troubled Leeds; goal as his cross-come-shot came back off the inside of Andy Lonergran’s right post.

The brutal challenges were coming thick and fast; Michael Brown got in on the action with a perfectly timed challenge on Jem Karacan which put paid to his afternoon. Reading later confirmed he’d be out for the season with a broken ankle.

Under Warnock, the players won’t be bothered about dispelling any ‘dirty Leeds myths’, which are kind of true but Brown’s tackle was fair, he got the ball. The injury an unfortunate after-effect.

Ross McCormack and Rob Snodgrass were providing Leeds’ only real chance; Snodgrass curled a wonderful freekick around the wall only for Adam Federici to palm his effort round the post, before McCormack’s turn and shot scraped the upright.

Reading were struggling to overcome Leeds’ steely determination and strong challenges, without any rhythm in their play and killer instinct upfront, Leeds were overcoming the home side and looking more likely to score.

A great run and change of feet saw McCormack in on goal, his lay off to Snodgrass was screaming out for the finish but the Leeds skipper tamely passed it into the path of Federici and Reading escaped. Leeds’ best chance had gone.

Looking good, Hartey

The miss proved telling as Reading finally broke Leeds’ resistance; Jimmy Kebe’s cross was headed back across goal and with Lonergran in no-man’s land, Hal Robson-Kanu’s header back across goal was bundled in my Adam Le Fondre.

Minutes later, Jason Roberts held off Paul Robinson in the box with a swing of the elbow, sending a low shot on the turn towards goal which Le Fondre finished from a few yards out to put the result beyond doubt. As if there ever really was any…

In the end, it felt like a sucker-punch of a loss; we’d fought so valiantly and come so close yet the victory was never really in our grasp.

It’s Reading, they’re probably going to be promoted this season and they’ve fully deserved their position in the league table and by rights, they should have battered us – going on form at least, yet we could have so easily pooped on their parade.

Like every away day following Leeds, the away support was second to none; without too much inspiration on the pitch and without any discernible contest from the home fans, the away end bounced along to ‘We All Love Leeds’ for a good ten minutes at the end of the first half. Easily the best ‘WALL’ since we played Leicester at their place a couple years ago, the damage to my throat was as painful now as it was then.

For Reading though, despite the decent stadium, a good manager and a capable team, their fans are in no way a reflection of how good they are on the pitch. Barely cheering on their own team, save for occasionally trying to goad the away fans, they sit there very politely for most of the match and only get up to muster a three fingered ripple when a goal is scored. Not to mention the ultimate in tinpottedness, they have goal music.

Shit fans, shit kit maker?

By the time I got home after the long drive up the motorway, I was still in a foul mood. I sulked on my bed as I read through the various match reports and social networks and never once thought I was overreacting. I’ve practically bankrupted myself following Leeds United across the country and despite the continued disappointment and howls of frustration, I wouldn’t change it.. Well I’d make us win, but I’d never not go to a match on the basis of the disappointment I’d felt the week previous.

On to Blackpool and Cardiff in the coming weeks. Joy!

 

Trounced by the Trees

If I had a quid for everyone who asked me ‘Ooh what happened with Leeds last night then?’ then I’d be able to buy a baseball bat to hit them all with.

What happened? Well… This was a freak scoreline however beyond the drubbing and the ridiculous result, the cracks which have long been expanding burst into open chasms.

Forest weren’t bothered about playing football, like Leeds. The constant hoofballs and misplaced passes were punctuated by their willingness to gamble in attack, to take a chance and go ‘ah what the hell’. All aided ably by the rather hapless Andy Lonergran.

Stunned.

The facts have long been clear; the Chairman said the same squad was good enough when Simon Grayson was in charge but now we’re still a few loans short of a bank.. Umm. Anyway.

The squad is not good enough. That’s the bottom line. Neil Warnock knows it, Ken Bates knows it, everyone knows it. One keeps harking back to Grayson’s tenure but the point is, Leeds were only a few quality players short of a promotion charge.

The continued exodus of dead wood has long been overdue and we’re now down to the bare bones; the incomings though, just to make a change, have been thin on the ground. Warnock has mentioned regularly his need to get one or two players here and there.

The same question seems to pop up with Leeds, namely why the hell the team never turn up on a Tuesday night game? Another was what the hell had changed so much since the draw against West Ham on Saturday?

Warnock was generous towards his players in public but one hopes the half-time hairdryer stayed firmly lodged up their backsides. He said that managers learn more about their players when they’re losing but one would be most surprised if Warnock hasn’t already made his mind up about much of the squad but for fuck sakes Neil, don’t give us excuses. Are we really supposed to believe that seasoned professionals who train regularly and have expert fitness guidance are only capable of playing one match a week?

The match was an utter debacle.

After five minutes, Leeds had taken the lead through a Rob Snodgrass penalty after Ross McCormack was tripped in the box by Adlene Guedioura but even by then, Dexter Blackstock had nearly put Forest ahead but his toe poke squirmed off the post.

Minutes later, Guedioura atoned. The Leeds defence backed off and his speculative drive from 35-odd yards swerved in the air and past a helpless Andy Lonergran.

The match was painfully poor, football was sacrificed for hoofball as both sides struggled to keep the ball on the deck and when it was, Paul Robinson was meting out some hefty challenges, one of which ended up with him in the book.

As Leeds went back down the other end, Snodgrass made a run into the box and centred for Aidy White but his audacious backheel was easily cleared. From the resulting corner, Forest broke with staggering ease. Andy Reid’s pass to Radoslaw Majewksi had Leeds struggling for cover and sure enough, Garath McCleary found himself in acres of space down the right. The finish looped over Lonegran.

Forest continued to press and Leeds’ defence continued to crumble. First, Lonergran didn’t get close to collecting a cross, which allowed McCleary a shot which was off target before Reid crossed for Blackstock to head home, out-jumping the hapless Tom Lees.

Huh?

I have recently been very complimentary of Lees; he has improved immensely this season but fatigue or not, there was no excuse for his inept performance. One wonders whether the public criticism of him by his manager had affected him but after being at fault for West Ham’s late equaliser, he’s treading a thin line.

Snodgrass was doing his best to help Leeds back into things and when his right wing cross found Luciano Becchio alone in the Forest box, the Argentine made no mistake.

What happened next was a thing of real beauty. A miracle if you will. Michael Brown has never so much as even troubled an opposition keeper with anything other than mouthing off too much but he does have the odd stunner in him. His half volley with the outside of his right foot from just outside the box was one of the most surprising moments I’ve ever had as a Leeds fan.

Everybody duck!

Sadly, the elation wasn’t to last. McCleary latched on to a long ball down the Leeds left and even with the angle against him, managed to fire a rasping shot into the far corner past Lonergran.

Reid was again involved when he found McClearly unmarked in the box for his hattrick, as his shot went underneath Lonergran. Leeds were just about still going and Snodgrass was unlucky when his fierce drive was acrobatically saved by Lee Camp.

McCleary then made it six with a run and shot from down the Leeds left and Blackstock made it a record-breaking seventh.

So, these cracks. Warnock has Bates in a corner; fail to back him and Warnock will walk, regardless of what happens in the next 18 months and Warnock will be done with football.

It’s the same old situation, Bates needs to back  his manager in the transfer window yet there is no precedent here, despite the fans optimism. Oddly, the result didn’t leave us any worse off than before the match. *Straws*

Too many good players have left Leeds and we’re left with the likes of Danny Pugh. He cost *half a million* pounds. Read that again; what a ridiculous amount of money to spend on a player who is as woefully inept as him. I’ll never know what Grayson saw in him.

Give or take half a dozen players, the team desperately needs an overhaul. Warnock continually alluded to the fact that he is down to the bare bones with his squad and one can only hope he is doing so to put pressure on the chairman to dip into the ‘warchest’ this summer.

Last night was an utter embarrassment and a disgrace to the club, make no mistake but the worst thing is, it’s hardly a rarity, we’ve been treated to ‘classics’ like the 4-6 vs Preston, the 0-4 trashing from Cardiff, the Blackpool/Rachubka show and the Birmingham 1-4, chuck in the defeats to Barnsley and so on.

At least if he didn’t know the size of the job facing him, he sure does now. Like a slap round the face and a swift one to the bollocks. Good luck Neil.

Leeds denied by late Hammers equaliser

Worst panoramic shot ever

Before the match, I’d have taken a point. Simple.

Despite how much Neil Warnock has improved the Leeds United squad, there is still much work to be done and despite the wonderfully positive feeling amongst the fans at the moment, I was never wholly convinced we could, or would beat West Ham.

Unbeaten since being thumped 5-1 by Ipswich in January, the Hammers had four draws from their last six matches and after a very poor footballing performance at Elland Road, they were lucky to come away with another draw.

After Warnock’s rallying cry, the fans didn’t disappoint and turned out in their droves. With the away end a 3,000 strong sell out, the home ends were packed too, as Ben Fry gleefully announced the 33,366 strong crowd earlier than usual. It says much about the simple but effective way Warnock is winning over the clubs fans; much maligned by Ken Bates before his arrival.

Even Bates himself was at Elland Road to witness the biggest attendance of the season.

The match itself as a spectacle was pretty dire but with Warnock and Sam Allardyce in charge, it was never going to be a Barcelona-esque classic. West Ham didn’t pose much of a threat and were more than happy with the draw, judging by their packed midfield while Leeds struggled to keep the ball on the deck.

The only ‘criticism’ if you will, that can be levelled at Warnock is that we’ve stopped scoring for fun, which is strange because Luciano Becchio is playing as well as he ever has and is bang in form.

Winning every header, as Warnock said he would

The first real chance for Leeds fell to Tom Lees who had a shot blocked, before good work from Robert Snodgrass almost set up Ross McCormack but West Ham cleared their lines.

At the other end, Nicky Maynard ran through on goal but his heavy touched meant Andy Lonergran could smother at his feet.

A Matt Taylor handball on the edge of the box presented Snodgrass with a chance from a free kick but his left-footed curler was just past Rob Green’s far post with the England stopper stranded.

Just before half time, Leeds were unlucky to see a Snodgrass goal ruled out, as the referee disallowed it for an alleged foul.

After half time, the introduction of Carlton Cole caused problems for Lees but the young defender has matured immeasurably since Warnock’s arrival; his reading of the game has improved and he is dominating in the air and picking out the most measured of passes. His all-round game goes from strength to strength, helped in no small part to the organisational skills and leadership of the re-born Michael Brown.

In a game which lacked any real quality, the likes of Brown, the ever-psychotic Paul Robinson and Adam Clayton were displaying the most crowd-pleasing commitment in the tackles, with Robinson on a one man mission to get the fans on their feet with a series of crunchers.

West Ham’s best chance from Mark Noble’s free kick which Cole headed just over the bar. Leeds came closest to taking the lead when Paul Connolly headed McCormack’s free kick goal-wards; it seemed a certain goal but Green suddenly flew across and palmed it away. Heartbreak for steady Conns.

Connolly almost scored again when he headed Snodgrass’ cross against the bar but Becchio was on hand to bury the rebound to send Elland Road in raptures.

Unfortunately the lead didn’t last long as Danny Collins found himself with space in the box to head home Noble’s corner.

After a scrappy match, a draw was probably deserved.. Although as a biased fan, we definitely edged it. This season is dead rubber though, as much as Warnock wants to win every game and will always want to do so, privately he will no doubt be accepting of the fact that the play-offs are beyond us and there’s no shame in admitting it.

What Warnock has brought to the club is more important though; next year, with a squad to call his own, Leeds should challenge for promotion but for now we have positives to look on and a future to look forward to. Even in what he admits will be his last job in football management, his desire to win matches burns strong and he has instilled the same passion in a set of players who are no world beaters, but they have bags of potential and look like they’d run through walls if Warnock told them to.

'Errr nah, I'm a softy'

Paul Robinson may not have been an obvious signing, nor (at the time) a hugely popular one but he is the type of player who gives the right amount of ‘nasty’ and whose experience allows the type of composure not seen from a Leeds left back in many a year gone by.

Brown and Clayton in Leeds’ midfield seem to find that extra yard and the timing of their challenges are protecting a defence not long bereft of confidence. It is unquestionable that Leeds need more midfield enforcement; a play-maker who can at the very least, make an impact from the bench.

Despite the introductions of Danny Webber and Mikael Forssell, Warnock has very few proven options on the bench and were he to lose his central midfielders to injury or suspension, the line up would be significantly weakened. If Leeds can maintain the same commitment and hard to beat style over the remaining games, Bates will have little excuse but to invest; call me a cynic but he may yet find some. At present, the summer seems a long way off but Warnock is already making the squad his; bold decisions will need to be made and there can be little doubt that he is the man to make them.

So Leeds stay tenth in the Championship, five points off sixth place with nine games to go, none of which will be easy but with the type of performances Leeds have produced under Warnock, even without the best results, the fans and players will be confident we have it in us to win the majority of them. As Warnock said, ‘the results count’, nowt else.

What a difference O’Day* makes

Oooh it's bleak

*Before anyone points out the title, it is deliberate. It’s how Boro spelt his name when the line ups were shown.

Middlesbrough, a bleak land of smoke, a big blue bridge and palmos. A city which could arguably benefit from what I can loosely call a make over. That said, it was a really good away day last time out and with it being a gloriously sunny Sunday lunch time, it promised to be another.

Since Neil Warnock took over at Leeds United, the transformation at the club has been as sizeable as it has been instantaneous. His straight-talking, no nonsense approach to the very basics of football has had instant results in terms of performances and today was the culmination of the hard work and the coming together of all it deserved.

Leeds have yet to lose at Middlesboro’ since they moved to the Riverside from Ayresome Park and despite the promise the last four matches, I was never confident. Boro had won four of their last five and settled comfortably in the play-offs but I was one of very few to feel less than confident about the match.

Warnock brought in Aidy White and Paul Robinson for his debut to replace Danny Webber and Danny Pugh in possibly Leeds’ strongest starting XI; the same can’t be said for the bench however but Warnock ensured it wouldn’t be an issue.

From the off, it was clear that Leeds would continue with a high pressure game, containing Boro’ at all times with Michael Brown running the show in midfield.

The sunny conditions brought a big away following which outsung the home fans throughout the match and it could have hardly stated better as Leeds took the lead. Darren O’Dea’s free kick round White in his new role on the right wing after a neat through pass to Rob Snodgrass whose shot squirmed under Jason Steele.

Boro were soon two down as Justin Hoyte’s mis-kick allowed Ross McCormack to center for Luciano Becchio finish from a few yards as Leeds asserted themselves further.

Leeds continued to maintain a tempo which starved Boro’ of possession, the excellent Brown showing the kind of precision tackling and passing which Warnock knew so well from their days at Sheffield United while Becchio was giving the Boro’ defence a torrid time. Warnock wasn’t wrong about Becchio winning headers and it is no exaggeration to say he won the large majority of them again today.

Barry Robson gave Andy Lonergran something to think about as he sent a stinging shot straight at the Leeds stopper before his goalbound corner was headed away from under his own crossbar by Robinson.

Tony Mowbray briefly got his side into the 2nd half; Rhys Williams with a header into the side netting from a freekick while at the other end, Adam Clayton and Brown sent shots off target.

As Boro huffed and puffed, Robson stupidly reacted to a crunching tackle from Clayton which resulted in the former getting his marching orders and really putting paid to Boro’s challenge.

Yeh, back to school on Monday

So, job done for Leeds United; even though the result still leaves us in 10th in the league, it means we are ‘only’ four points off the play-offs, although having played at least a game more than most of the teams above us and those in contention below us.

The mood has changed drastically though. Even after the Doncaster game, it was still largely felt that this season was dead rubber, and when we’re being totally realistic, it is probably beyond our grasp to even sneak into sixth. Don’t get me wrong, it’s hardly beyond the realms of possibility; the league is so unpredictable and everyone is capable of beating anyone and the last few performances have given plenty of fans to be overly positive for the visit of West Ham next week.

We shouldn’t obviously get too carried away. For starters, the squad is a few players short of a promotion challenge and our lack of strength in depth is reflected by those who took their places on the bench today.

Warnock has now said in most, if not all of his interviews about bringing a few extra players in but for now, he’s getting the best out of what he has. Under Simon Grayson, the likes of Brown and O’Dea struggled to assert themselves in the hurly-burly manner we’ve seen in recent games.

Tom Lees seems to have matured about five years and even ‘steady’ Paul Connolly looks, well, steady. The fact that Brown was making more tackles and caressing touches (of the BALL!) not to mentioning making bursting runs, yes RUNS, into the box shows just how good a motivator Warnock is.

Your time will come, Michael

Captain Snodgrass was once again running himself stupid but the only point I’d make against Warnock at this point is that White should be left on the left wing, and Snods on the right/floaty around position. It works, don’t change it!

For the first time probably since we won promotion, or beat the Scum at their place, for the fans there is real pride in the team again because every player is giving their all. For 90minutes, Warnock has every player fearing for the well-being of their testicles, such is the desire and urgency in his game plan.

Grayson, for all he did at Leeds, never solved the problem of our leaky defence but in four games under Warnock, Leeds have conceded just one goal, and that was against the league leaders Southampton and although its taken a few games, the strikers are back on form.

Thankfully, we made it past the worst attempt at fencing away fans in – take note Boro’, Hesco Bastion do compounds properly; and over the bridge, not without getting a sizeable proportion of the city’s benefits chucked at us before escaping towards the ahem, open hills. Left to consider West Ham next week, it can only be said that the trepidation is thankfully not akin to the usual bowel-emptying nausea one might have faced if Grayson had been in charge…

ON ON ON!

Leeds draw another blank as Warnock waits for first win

Yes, that is a walking fag-butt.

Considering Neil Warnock is yet to pick up a win with Leeds United since taking charge, the feeling amongst the fans is relatively positive. After 3 matches, Leeds have yet to even score under the new manager but have conceded just one goal during that time and a second 0-0 in as many weeks is undoubtedly encouraging.

On a breezing night in the East Riding, thousands of Leeds fans made the trip to the ever dull, lego-like façade of the Kingston Communications Stadium. Inside, we were treated to the infamous ‘Tigers! Tigers! Rah, rah, rah’ debacle and chants about how Elland Road is old and falling down. If they had bothered to venture into Leeds, they’d actually be wrong; what with the fabulous new East stand development and the biggest conference facility between Newcastle and Manchester. It makes ‘The Deep’ look like Peter Ridsdale’s old goldfish bowl.

On a side note, I can assure everyone that the irony of the stadium’s name was not lost on the fact that it was impossible to get any sort of internet signal inside the ground.

I should sue; 'communications' my backside.

Ahh the game… Warnock was forced into two changes for the visit to the East Riding with Aidy White and Leigh Bromby out with injuries, in came Paul Connolly and Danny Webber.

The inclusion of Webber in the starting line up was interesting; after an impressive cameo appearance in the defeat to Southampton at the weekend, Webber was one of four forwards in a very attacking, and ultimately, disorganised line up. After batting Southampton just days before, that even with the enforced changes, Warnock changed the front line to such an extent.

The match in itself was unspectacular to say the least. Hull had drawn four of their last five matches and like Leeds, were really struggling for goals so a no score stalemate was not an unexpected outcome.

Leeds struggled to get into the match in the first half as Hull set about Leeds, finding space in front of the back four to drive at the heart of Leeds’ defence, they began testing Andy Longeran. Cameron Stewart and Corey Evans both tested him with powerful drives which Lonergran did well to smother before Robert Koren released an unstoppable shot from distance. Lonergran was beaten but the shot swerved just past the post.

Leeds struggled to get to half time; Hull were quicker to the ball, won more in the air and were more willing to put two men on to every Leeds player who had the ball to force Leeds into a long ball game. Again and again the pressure was short lived as long ball were punted forward.

The real frustration of the first half was directed at Stuart Attwell. I’ve seen him officiated quite a few times now; I know referees get a massive proportion of stick but how this man continues to officiate at any level higher than the Huddersfield and District Works and Combination League Division Two is beyond me. Hull’s official foul count for the evening eventually read 19 (according to the BBC) yet considering Aaron McLean registered at least eight of those, I doubt it’s wholly accurate.

The un-bookable McLean

The fact was that during the whole match, Attwell was constantly being very over the top about talking to players, ‘Oh now that’s naughty, please don’t do it again’; yet despite a number of Hull players persistently fouling, he somehow managed to keep his cards firmly in his pocket. Referees need to gain respect; granted, it’s a two way street but his lack of authority on the match was appalling and both sets of players were getting away with it.

Unsurprisingly, the first foul, which was barely even that, from Adam Clayton, was immediately punished with a yellow card. Consistent? No chance. Speaking of which, consistency is something Clayton will do well to get into his game. After bossing the midfield against Southampton, Clayton was woefully off key in a match which largely passed him by and when he did get involved, the accuracy of his passes can be marked only by the Billy Paynter scale…

Further forward, the volume of hoof ball was cutting out the need for a midfield that didn’t seem all that comfortable in positioning anyway so up front, Luciano Becchio was doing his level best to win everything which came his way. In fairness, he won a large percentage of it but with three forwards around him and a very off target Adam Clayton, Becchio was struggling to get Ross McCormack, Robert Snodgrass and Webber involved; one also might argue that such was there positioning, that they were struggling to involve themselves.

The second half was slightly more tense, if not full of the same, rather dull and predictable football. Hull weren’t going all out but they  were putting together an altogether more convincing show of football while Leeds were slowly but surely, building possession and making forays forward.

When they did make it forward, the problems were wholly frustrating. McCormack was often very deep and making the types of paces he should be on the end of, and without someone to be him, there was nothing doing there. Snodgrass spurned two great opportunities to put crosses in, when in the box. Instead his perceived abilities far exaggerated his actual abilities and both decisions were simply idiotic. In truth, the quality of crosses on the whole, from Leeds, were extremely poor; chances were few and far between.

As the game wore on, Webber had clearly been wondering too hard about where exactly he should be playing and had completely worn himself out; unfortunately this eventually meant ever-exciting introduction of Lloyd Sam. I’ve seen 18 wheelers with flat tyres turn faster and more efficiently than he does. After that, there wasn’t much else to be remotely interested in.

'Lloyd Sam?? Oh my God, what have I done...?'

One thing is for sure, the defence has improved immensely in just a few games, the spine of the team, from the excellent Tom Lees, to Darren O’Dea, Michael Brown and Becchio is what Warnock needs to concentrate on. Brown as a defensive, tackling midfielder has had two very good games even if his passing when higher up the pitch leaves plenty to be desired while Lees is reading the game quicker, making better decisions and cleaner tackles. O’Dea is just generally looking a lot less dazed, which is always good. As for Lonegran, he looks back to his best; without the pressure of the captaincy, he is concentrating on what he does best.

Publicly, Warnock has said the play-offs are out of our reach; while I’m inclined to agree, it is immensely frustrating that the players are (now) capable of keeping clean sheets and (have been) capable of scoring goals for fun. No doubt, hopefully that Warnock will find a system which reaps the benefits of both but it’s surely too late for this season.

A point against Hull wouldn’t have been a bad result a few months ago but unfortunately, a point isn’t much help to either team at the moment; that said, despite no wins in three, there is still an un-erring feeling of positivity. Even better though is that Warnock has publicly stated that Leeds will no longer be relying on a squad consisting largely of loan players in the future. A point which would have been slightly less ironic had he not just announced the incoming Paul Robinson’s arrival.. On a months loan.

Next up, Boro. With four wins from five, they’re one of the leagues most in-form teams and with Reading, are just about clinging on to the dream of second place if they can catch West Ham, whom we face the following week. Being real and forgetting all the silly positivity, we’ll do well to get anything from either game. But here’s to hoping.

And the award for ‘goal with a charmed life’ goes to… Southampton.

It’s been a long time coming but finally, Leeds fans walked away from Elland Road this evening with an unfamiliar sense of renewed belief and real pride.

The visit of Southampton was one many looked at with little other than a fleeting glance; top of the league with a bit of room to spare and scoring for fun. After the improbable win over Donny and a battling point at Portsmouth, the fans were holding out for anything other than a battering. Which frankly was highly probable.

With an evening kick off courtesy of Sky, and rather ridiculously priced tickets courtesy of Ken Bates and Co. the crowd was a bit thin on the ground but what was to come was as welcome as it was a surprise.

The surprise was two-fold. Leeds had shed their inhibitions, instead of the shy style where the defence sat back and invited pressure, the midfield were constantly urged to stay higher up the pitch; to get about their opponents and force them into mistakes.

Southampton though, brought very little to the evening except two rather immovable figures in Rickie Lambert and keeper Kelvin Davis. The goal scorer and the games’ winner made the difference as the league leaders somehow, unbelievably left Elland Road with three points.

The only change for Leeds saw the injured Alex Bruce make way for Leigh Bromby at right back as Warnock kept an attacking squad at his disposal, with Danny Webber on the bench.

Leeds were all over Southampton from the off and Rob Snodgrass was unlucky to see a penalty shout turned down as Jose Fonte handled in the box. Adam Clayton and Ross McCormack were denied by Davis but against the run of play, Southampton took the lead.

Tadanari Lee’s knock down from Jack Cork’s was finished with some force by Lambert who volleyed in at the back stick; Warnock was generous about the positioning of Darren O’Dea for the goal, saying that he slipped. That said, for the most part, the defence coped as well as it has all season.

As Leeds continued to dominate in possession, the chances came thick and fast; Aidy White whipped in a cross, but Snodgrass’ effort was over before White was again involved, teeing up McCormack whose shot was off target.

Having taken an early knock Leigh Bromby succumbed and was replaced by the ‘ever steady’ Paul Connolly.

Davis was being called into action again and again, as Snodgrass, Luciano Becchio and McCormack all testing his reflexes.

The second half continued in exactly the same vein before White’s injury forced him off and Webber came on for his Leeds debut. Davis though, wasn’t about to let Leeds back into it and after dropping a cross, he inexplicably managed to deny Becchio at close range before keeping out Webber twice.

Another goal mouth scramble saw O’Dea and Becchio head against the bar but for all the will in the world, Leeds just weren’t going to score and the match finished with a plucky win for Southampton.

I think plucky is being generous, they were bloody jammier than a jammy dodger dipped in a pot of jam.

The most frustrating thing is that we battered the league leaders; no one will deny that but the killer instinct escaped Leeds BUT…

The positives are in abundance. It was great to hear Warnock after the match; that’s the very least I expect, he said. And funnily enough, that isn’t unrealistic to the players or the fans. Warnock has already galvanised the squad and the fans, urging the fans to do their bit and boy, he is holding up his end of the bargain.

It’s been a bloody long time since the players were roundly applauded and sung off the pitch, such was the feeling of pride, reinstated in the players and fans alike. The effort from the players was collective and believable and matched, step for step by the fans who produced an electric and buoyant atmosphere.

Urging the players on at every turn, the players obliged with lung-busting runs, flying tackles and even the odd flowing passing move to light up any evening.

Captain Snodgrass led by example, covering almost every inch of the pitch, chasing ever lost cause and still managing to swing in a testing cross with legs which must’ve weighed an immeasurable amount. Adam Clayton put in one of his most dominant yet; full blooded tackles and cross field passes were completed with unerring accuracy and Becchio was creating, holding, heading at an unprecedented rate (by his standards….)

For Leeds though, it ultimately boiled down to an age old problem. Southampton won it because they had quality were it mattered. Warnock has admitted he is keen to being in more players in the coming weeks which will hopefully give the squad that extra bit of presence on the field. Webber’s debut was fleeting but he showed flashes of quality and pace on the ball, the question remains as to where he’ll fit in the team.

There is little doubt though that Warnock has a big job, he has raised expectations higher than we could’ve thought at this point and with the play offs still just about in reach, it could well end up being a disappointment not to reach them if Warnock continues instilling the belief in his players and the fans.

The big question now is whether chairman Ken Bates will do his bit and allow Warnock to bring in the personnel he needs.

After the outcry over the ticket ban he handed to the ‘insignificant hooray henrys’ i.e. the LUST board, there was anger. Fans who had before been indifferent to his tenure had seen the line well and truly crossed but the continued resurgence of the team on the pitch means there is a positive focus now.

For those saying the Bates Out chants and protests don’t have a place in our fan base, just remember that match-day going fans can pay their money and support the team, for 90 minutes, for every match but the issue of Bates, his actions and his tenure will never be an issue which can be permanently brushed under the carpet. His actions won’t be forgotten and fans who believe he has done no wrong in banning loyal, paying customers from doing what YOU want, from supporting their team, then you need to think again.

ON ON ON.

Warnock inspires Leeds’ comeback

Now, for all those who support and have championed Neil Redfearn for the job (til the end of the season, and there are a good few of you), Neil Warnock’s interview with Yorkshire Radio after the match summed up everything we needed to know about Redfearn’s tenure.

Against Bristol City, we were fortunate, and that’s putting it lightly. We were so lucky to come out of that match with anything other than frostbite. Against Brighton and Coventry we were just as woeful and without the referee brandishing more red cards to the opposition, Leeds offered nothing.

The long awaited announcement that Warnock had indeed been given the job was a massive relief; not only had the club got their man but it meant Redfearn wouldn’t get the job. I must add at this point, I have nothing against Redfearn in that none of this is his fault, IN THAT he’s been flung into the fire without much hope of anything. He is very much a coach, and when we look at the team, he’s a good one who has coached a great many decent young players through the ranks but that is where his abilities are, and should be left. We don’t, and could not have continued with a man at the helm with whom the players thought of as a mate. It was too pally and too safe. Leeds simply could not afford to leave matters in his hands, even Bates knew that.

Ah yes, that calm and reasoned ol' gentleman.

So, Neil Warnock. I’ve never professed to like the guy, far from it; even during his tenure at Elland Road, he’ll probably still be the annoying, moaning, most irritating manager in the league but there’s always been a grudging respect for his managerial record. He’s not liked but then again, nor are Leeds so it’s a good match.

To the match and there was an air of positivity about the new manager; our season could finally have the desire and leadership it craved but Doncaster Rovers weren’t about to let the afternoon go smoothly. Adam Smith was dropped out of the side in favour of Alex Bruce at right back – yes, we remember the square pegs; they’re still here. Elsewhere, the injured Fab Delph was replaced by Andros Townsend with Danny Pugh moving into the centre.

From the off, Leeds looked shaky at the back and within minutes, Habib Bamogo found himself with the freedom of the six yard box and with the cockiest of back-heels, he had Andy Lonergran beaten, luckily, it hit the post and trickled to safety.

It wasn’t long though before Leeds were caught out as James Hayter’s was through on goal, only for Lonners to smother his effort which fell kindly for substitute Mamadou Bagayoko who was left with the easy job of putting Rovers in front.

Leeds were struggling to get into the game at all, the blustery condition were blameless as Leeds hoofed their way to half time in scenes as rudderless and demorolising as what we’d been subjected to at Coventry during the week, except by this time, we’d somehow managed to draw level.

In the squad went at half time to a chorus of boos from the frustrated crowd. Thankfully for everyone, Neil Warnock was on hand for the hairdryer treatment; the players needed a bollocking and the tactics needed redoing.

It’s never easy with Leeds though and Bagayoko was soon at it again, finding himself unmarked as Diouf and Tommy Spurr played him in, the rest was too easy. Aidy White was in no mans land at the back post.

Now officially a worse match than Coventry, the boos were louder, the frustration boiling over. Leeds had been so devoid of ideas and the constant hoofs and head tennis was all too much for many.

Thankfully, change was in the air as Townsend slammed Leeds level from Pugh’s layoff. The roar went up and the slightest hint of belief crept over Elland Road. After a tactical reshuffle, courtesy of Warnock, over the phone; Townsend switched to wide right, with Ross McCormack hanging out on the left; Snodgrass came in field before Robbie Rogers came on for Townsend.

Leeds were on the front foot and Snodgrass was getting more freedom, the first of his crosses was superbly headed clear by Spurr as Becchio was inches from scoring before Adam Clayton swung a foot at Snodgrass’ cross for the equaliser.

The celebration was an emphatic fist swirling affair, full of passion and meaning and for the first time, there was belief we could actually win this. Leeds’ pressure was dampened though when the unfortunate Rogers went head to head with Spurr which ended both their afternoons. Rogers suffered concussion in the collision but has since been declared ‘ok’, although taken to hospital for precautionary measures. You know its been a good debut when you don’t remember it. Or am I thinking of a night out? Hmm.

The stoppage was also notable for the precursor to what kicked off in the tunnel at full time as O’Dea and McCormack got involved in a tit for tat war of words with the ever innocent El Hadji Diouf and Pascal Chimbonda. The sideshow was a sour moment which Diouf played up to, as he usually does. Warnock got it spot on when he described him as a sewer rat, even if that is somewhat of an insult to sewer rats.

The stoppage brought about by the injury meant a good 10 minutes eventually being added on and as Leeds pressed, the ball fell to a persistent Luciano Becchio; his first shot was blocked but the ball fell kindly and Becchio produced one of the most clinical strikes of his Leeds career. Right in the top corner, postage stamp accuracy and the turnaround was complete.

It was telling that the players all followed and joined in the mobbing of Redfearn on the touchline; a likeable gentleman he may be but the players need discipline and man management, not the pally-pally approach. Warnock added in his post match chat that he wasn’t overly happy at being ignored during the Argentine’s celebration.

He won’t have begrudged Redfearn the moment though. Despite his limited managerial abilities, he has come through a difficult and immensely challenging few weeks with his dignity intact. And his managerial record is no worse off.

Listening to the radio after the match, there was a rather unfamiliar and disconcerting positivity about what the future holds. Warnock pointed out the flaws which he had observed and will remedy; quotes rarely formed during Simon Grayson’s tenure. Most tellingly, he said Becchio will win every header this season, ‘mark my words’. If you can keep him off the floor and sort out his first touch, you’re on to a winner, Neil.

He spoke of the changes from half time, getting Snods off the wing where he was largely crowded out, into a central role, how Becchio had a thankless task, constantly isolated from a midfield starting from their own 18 yard box, to how unhappy he was seeing so many Leeds players defending without leaving an outlet up front. He spoke of going back to basics but with Warnock, the basics will be just that. Leeds can play nice football, Clayton, McCormack and Snodgrass are among the most talented players we have, and through them we will create goals but the disorganised defence which was crying out for a leader will be Warnock’s big task in the weeks ahead.

What are these ‘tactics’ you speak of Neil? Do share more with us!

The incident at full time which sadly took place away from the cameras view in the tunnel will probably roll on for a few days but the rumours surfacing from what happened are at best, unsavoury. Donny player(s) have allegedly spat at McCormack, who has understandably reacted, by head-butting the perpetrator. Not the wisest move but the chants of ‘we’ll pay your fine for you’ said it all about the fans feeling towards Diouf.

Come on Diouf if you think you're 'ard enough. BANG, nutted.*

Regardless of the way the game ended, the victory is a huge confidence boost, even if it was against the club who are bottom of the league. Warnock would rather win one and lose one, than pick up a couple draws, which is comforting after Leeds looked happy to try for the point at Coventry.

*Disclaimer. Ross McCormack may or may not have nutted Diouf. Diouf may or may not be a massive twat.

Lady luck shines on Leeds again

It’s becoming a bit of trend with Leeds United in recent weeks; against Bristol City, Leeds collected three points by yet again having to face a team without a full quota, by virtue of yet more red cards.

The stat is a startling one; in four out of five games, Leeds’ opposition have finished the game minus one, or in yesterdays case, two of their players. Against Burnley, Kieran Trippier’s red card resulted (somewhat) in Leeds robbing three points; Shaun Scannell was sent off for Palace where Leeds grabbed a point. Against Ipswich, Alex McCarthy’s early exit paved the way for a more convincing win before the two at Bristol brought up the total.

Lady luck it seems, is courting Leeds in a manner befitting of a future, more serious relationship but rarely has a caretaker manager made such a low key impression ahead of staking his claim for the job outright.

Neil ‘Redders’ Redfearn has been placed in temporary charge while the club begin a search for a new manager and looked largely to have started where Grayson left off. Adam Smith, on loan from Tottenham, came in at right back for Zac Thompson while Danny Pugh replaced Andros Townsend.

As so often with Leeds in recent months, they were on the back foot as Bristol City took advantage of a clearly nervous and slightly disorganised visiting side. Yannick Bolasie was the first to pull a fine save out of Andy Lonergran before Leeds old-boy Neil Kilkenny kept him on his toes with a fierce drive.

Brizzle were dominating as Leeds’ midfield struggled to find position, let alone the ball while the defence was being pulled apart at will by a free-flowing home side. Their problem was finishing; a goal seemed certain but unexpectedly came from Leeds. A wonderful move involving Luciano Becchio, Danny Pugh and Ross McCormack played in Rob Snodgrass who swept the ball past David James.

The buoyant pocket of the home support, housed next to the away fans in the corner were silenced in shock, the goal was compounded minutes later as James Wilson received a straight red card for bringing down McCormack. In full flight and clear on goal, Wilson’s challenge was desperate and worthy of a red and City could have no arguments.

Suddenly, Redders’ half time talk was looking a whole lot easier. After bossing the game for most part, Kilkenny was inexplicably sacrificed as Brizzle went into defence mode but not long after half time, they went for damage limitation. Bolasie’s cynical challenge brought down Smith as he looked to break away and the referee had little choice, after a string of persistent fouls, to produce a second yellow card.

Leeds were finally in control; against ten men they had done little to make the advantage count, but against nine, Fabian Delph rediscovered the ability to pass, tackle and control, while McCormack’s movement was causing the Brizzle defence all kinds of problems. Before he finally netted a goal which counted, he had a hatrick of chances ruled out for offside. Pissed off was not the word for our Ross.

His angled finish from Snods’ dink went through James into the far corner and the away fans breathed the smallest sigh of relief. Not a complete one, the game was far from over and despite the numerical disadvantage, substitute Jon Stead was still causing Leeds problems at the back. It wasn’t until Becchio’s late finish that the palpitations subsided.

The cliche ‘match of two halves’ reigns eternal; Leeds had barely been in it for the first 45 minutes and only with some considerable assistance from the the home side – and the referee, did the side emerge with three points.

Don’t get me wrong, a win’s a win but it can only go on so long before things really start to fall apart, like they did against Birmingham.

Leeds were far from convincing against ten men, I don’t mind admitting I was very close to counting the Brizzle players before Bolasie went for an early shower; such was Leeds’ lack of leadership and direction. When Leeds did kick into gear, it was Snods and McCormack who lead from the front; Lord knows what kind of position the club would be in had they been sold last month.

So a very valuable three points, and with the snow now falling heavily across the country, one doesn’t want to think about how bad the journey back could’ve been without the win.

Such were the conditions that instead of the four hours it should’ve taken, it wasn’t until just past midnight that I crawled gratefully into bed. I’ll happily admit that I’m not the most patient of drivers but I draw the line at driving at least 2/3 of the 216 miles at under 30mph. The three inches of snow had brought the motorways to a crawl before two jack-knifed lorries blocked our ‘progress’ on the M42 for an hour.

After finally crawling on to the M1, we passed the very subtly decorated Yorkshire Radio car and mercifully, the road had been cleared. Yorkshire did it right, from north of Mansfield, it was plain sailing all the way.

The next week is such to be an interesting one, between a LUST meeting on February 9th (see here for more details: www.lufctrust.org/ ) and a planned protest before the Brighton game at the weekend, Leeds will be in the market for a new manager. With the odds swinging faster than a monkey on speed, one can only guess who’ll be getting one of the best and worst jobs in football management.

Personally, I think it should be Neil Warnock; I know, he’s immensely irritating and makes a point of being so, but with a proven record of getting clubs promoted and a dominant personality, he is a decent bet. Add to that he is completely unattached from any contractual obligations in terms of clubs, he surely has to be high on the list. Adam is also championing him, see why here: http://ken-demange.blogspot.com/2012/02/new-manager-why-is-has-to-be-warnock.html