Good Morning. It's Monday 26th August, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Victory at HillsboroughGoals from Brenden Aaronson and Dan James brought some much-needed positivity to the Elland Road faithful, (and their 3800 jubilant travelling fans), as Leeds recorded their first win of the season.
Back-to-back draws coupled with the departure of key personnel, have left large sections of Whites fans subdued and more than a little apprehensive about the season ahead. For the most part, Leeds looked well organised, difficult to break down, and lethal on the break. The cogs were finally turning in unison. It will be interesting to see how they get on against more difficult opposition.
Despite their strong start to their campaign (with a 4-0 win over Plymouth), Wednesday's lack of quality soon showed. They were over-reliant on their wing-backs, and an aging Barry Bannan to provide the goods, lacking any kind of bite. Danny Röhl's side have been widely tipped to do well this season; they'll need to improve ten-fold, if they are to avoid a relegation dog fight!
Leeds can't afford to stool on Chair bidLeeds are plotting the capture of QPR's highly rated playmaker Ilias Chair, as the replacement for Georginio Rutter. The Hoops will be desperate to keep hold of their star player. He has been a part of the furniture at Loftus Road since 2017, when he signed from Belgium outfit Lierse (for a nominal fee of £50,000). He is quickly closing in on 250 appearances for the West London side and has netted 34 times. His creativity
Leeds won't take QPR's objections sitting down! They have identified the 26yo Moroccan International as a direct replacement for Georginio Rutter who joined Brighton earlier this month. Leeds can't afford to stool. Marti Cifuentes will want time to find a replacement, but sofa Leeds are yet to make an offer.
Earlier this year, Ilias and his brother Jaber, were convicted of assaulting a truck driver with a rock, breaking his skull and leaving him unconscious. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison with a further 12 months suspended. Last month he successfully had his jail term reduced to 150 hours of community service and a fine of £1,345.
Wober on the move?Borussia Monchengladbach are in talks with Leeds about bringing Max Wober back to Borussia-Park before the end of the Summer transfer window. The Austrian International showcased his quality, whilst on loan with the Bundesliga outfit last season, becoming one of the first names on their team sheet. Although he played a significant part, they are unwilling or unable to table a bid that comes close to Leeds expectations.
The 49ers want to clear £10m if they are to let Wober leave the club, which does not seem a lot for a player of his pedigree. Having seen the way Leeds Utd operate, Gladbach are taking the begging bowl approach. If this does not work, their next enquiry will be a season-long loan with an option to buy (let's hope Leeds at least insert a compulsory purchase at a decent price, even if it means the Germans have to stagger payments over several years.
