The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Tuesday 4th February) - Leeds United have made their bed...
Good Morning. It's Tuesday 4th February, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
They've made their bed...
The window of opportunity for Daniel Farke to strengthen his squad has passed, and fans are not happy! Thousands took to social media last night to voice their concern and anger at the clubs shortsightedness not to bring in reinforcements ahead of a gruelling season finale.
Let's not pretend Farke doesn't have a talented squad. He does. Arguably the strongest in the Championship. But talent alone doesn't guarantee promotion. It doesn't shield players from the inevitable wear and tear of a 46-game season. What happens when injuries bite? What happens when fatigue sets in?
Are we seriously expecting this squad to flawlessly navigate cup runs, International Breaks, and the ever-present threat of suspension? How on earth have we not learnt from our mistakes of last season? Two bad results could see the Whites drop to fourth, and there are still 48 points to play for!
It's arrogant, short-sighted and a slap in the face to the fans who deserve better than this. We'll have to see if the gamble pays off, but right now, all I hear is the deafening noise of a massive missed opportunity.
Leeds turn down Joseph bid
Leeds reportedly turned down a bid exceeding £10 million for striker Mateo Joseph over the weekend, according to Beren Cross of The Athletic. It's understood that Real Betis made the enquiry regarding the Spanish Under-21 international. However, Leeds quickly rebuffed their approach, signaling their intent to retain the young forward.
He recently ended a three-and-a-half-month goal drought, finding the net in Leeds' dominant 7-0 victory over Cardiff City, marking his third of the season, adding to his three assists across 1151 minutes of game time. Despite starting the campaign as Farke's preferred choice, Joseph has since seen his playing time diminish, with Joel Piroe emerging as Leeds' primary attacking threat.
Given Patrick Bamford's recurring injury concerns, allowing Joseph to leave the club, especially with a promotion push on the line, would have been madness. In truth, sending Joseph out on loan wouldn't have been the worst idea, but not without a stronger option arriving.