Phil Hay has been speaking about how Leeds United’s defensive frailties continue to harm them in the Premier League.
Leeds were impressive during their latest match – a 3-3 draw against Aston Villa – but they did find themselves 3-1 down just before half time, making it the sixth time they’ve shipped at least three goals in a single match.
Will Leeds' defence see them relegated?
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No!
Therefore, it’s pretty clear where they are struggling this season, as they’ve also only kept three clean sheets in the Premier League, however, they appear to be very lucky to have players such as Raphinha, Jack Harrison and Daniel James who are able to be effective enough in the final third to still get them points when required, with the trio having netted 16 goals between them in the league.
While speaking on The Phil Hay Show, Hay made it pretty clear that problems at the back are just as big as any other issues within the squad.
“As I was sitting watching Coutinho score and then Ramsey on one side of the pitch, [then] Ramsey on the other side of the pitch, 1-0 turning to 3-1, I did think to myself, for all the focus on centre-forward and the attacking line and the goals that Leeds are scoring, nobody is really talking so much about the goals that they’re conceding.
“That is as much of an issue when it comes to staying up as what’s going on up front.”
TIF Thoughts on Leeds’ defensive issues…
Leeds currently hold the third-worst defensive record in the league having shipped 43 goals this season – only Norwich and Newcastle United have fared worse at the back – however, with influential defender and captain Liam Cooper having been absent since December, that could explain part of the reasons behind that.
While a lot of people have focused on Leeds’ problems up front, with Patrick Bamford having played just six games this season, Bielsa has handed appearances to 10 different defenders this season, highlighting an obvious problem of not having any consistency or continuity at the back.
So while the issues are evident, perhaps they are easier to explain and hopefully rectify in the coming weeks and months.
In other news: ‘Has been so interested in him’ – Phil Hay claims Bielsa has plans for ‘excellent’ Leeds man