Good Morning. It's Monday 7th October, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Could only happen to LeedsThere was late drama at the Stadium of Light as Sunderland came from behind to grab a share of the spoils with virtually the last kick of the game. With 97 minutes on the clock, and the Whites looking comfortable, Leeds (and Meslier in particular) were dealt the cruellest of blows when Alan Browne's harmless flick-on 40 yards out, bounced awkwardly and rolled into the back of the net as the half empty stadium celebrated like they had won the league.
Closer examination shows that Junior Firpo got the final touch (and indeed was credited with the own goal). The inertia generated, sent the ball (once it bounced) in a totally different trajectory, providing more spin than a Breakfast Debate. The hosts had taken the lead after nine minutes. Leeds failed to clear Roberts cut-back, allowing Cirkin a free strike at goal, which Meslier was equal to. Unfortunately, the rebound fell kindly to Rigg who stabbed the ball home from close distance.
Leeds drew level twelve minutes later, with Piroe claiming his fourth of the season, heading Gnonto's inch perfect cross, across goal, leaving Patterson stranded. The score-line remained level until ten minutes into the second half. Firpo's clever one-two with Gnonto allowed the former Barca man the space to pick his spot from twelve yards out.
There was little to choose between the teams, though the hosts dominated the corner count. Once again Leeds wasted a host of half chances which always seem to get gobbled up by opponents, but this is the Leeds way. I can't help thinking the club is cursed - did we ever lift the gypsy curse on Elland Road?
Kramer to answer Leeds SOS?Former Germany International midfielder Christof Kramer could join Leeds later this month after Daniel Farke hinted that he may be forced to explore the free agent market. The 33 year old, a product of the Bayer Leverkusen is currently exploring his options after refusing a new deal with Borussia Mönchengladbach. Having worked with the versatile midfielder during his tenure at Borussia Park, Farke knows exactly what he'll be getting.
Long term injuries to Ilea Gruev, and skipper Ethan Ampadu have left Leeds short of midfielders. The duo are not expected back until after Christmas by which time half the season will be over. AO Tanaka and Joe Rothwell have performed admirably in the last few games but the gaffer wants options in the middle of the park, and that's before taking into consideration any further injuries between now and January!
Kramer may need to take some convincing, with suggestions from the press insinuating that he would prefer to stay in Germany. Jordan Henderson may also be an option. The 34yo is struggling for game time at Ajax, and could return to Blighty. Any move for the former England star would have to be in January as he is under contract with the Dutch giants.
Lack of competition for No1 jersey is harming LeedsWe're not two months into the Championship season, and already we're down to our bare bones. Injuries to Solomon, James, Wober, Ampadu and Gruev has left Daniel Farke with selection dilemma's and a far weakened bench! We all understand that outside of the glitz and glamour of the top flight, clubs need to cut their cloth accordingly. Leeds sold £120m of talent during the Summer, and have bought in reinforcements that generally speaking add strength in depth without splashing out on a marquee signing.
Alex Cairns re-joined the Whites after a nine year exodus in the lower leagues, gaining valuable experience with the likes of Fleetwood Town and Salford City. Whilst his Summer transfer makes sense (as a minimum of eight players in the squad must be home-grown, and Cairns qualifies), it doesn't provide Meslier with any decent competition. Supposed second choice shot-stopper Karl Darlow has proved as useful as a chocolate teapot on the rare occasion he gets a run out. Without competition, perhaps Meslier has become a little complacent. The odd mistake here and there goes unpunished, as the competition for the No1 jersey is sadly lacking!
