OPINION
While Leeds United might have stolen the show at times in the Championship this season, there is one are which has been lacking through bad luck and poor judgement – the attack.
Yes, the Whites might have netted more goals than all but one of their second tier opponents but many of those have come in big wins where the likes of Kemar Roofe or Patrick Bamford have been available.
Recently, thanks to injury blows to the senior pair, it has been left to the young head of Tyler Roberts to lead the line, but it is quite clear that he has some way to go before becoming the finished article.
In all but one of their last eight games across all competitions, the Whites have failed to score more than once, and while there was the 1-0 victory over Hull City, all the other times have resulted in either a draw or defeat, highlighting the need for a proven centre forward.
Leeds actually got rid of plenty of their striker options over the summer window, leaving Marcelo Bielsa with limited options for the new campaign, and it appears the club have dropped the ball by letting so many go in one transfer market.
However, while the likes of Caleb Ekuban and Jay-Roy Grot are struggling for form after being shipped out on loan, the same cannot be said for Marcus Antonsson, who moved to Malmo on a permanent deal – and his exit is looking like something of a blunder as he dazzles in Europe.
His five goals in eight league starts for the Swedish side is an impressive record, and the 27-year-old is also being entrusted to lead the line in the Europa League, having netted in both of their qualifying matches to help the club reach the group stages.
Having struggled to make a mark at Elland Road, many fans would not have been too disheartened to see him leave in the summer but with Leeds’ struggles shining through, a natural centre forward would not go amiss, and having Antonsson at their disposal now could really boost their chances.
Yes, Bielsa could not have known that injury was going to strike, but it is a blunder which has cost them a clear run at promotion so far.