The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Monday 10th February) Leeds dumped out of the FA Cup
Good Morning. It's Monday 10th February, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Leeds dumped out of the FA Cup
Leeds United's FA Cup journey came to an abrupt end this weekend as they were defeated by Millwall at Elland Road. A brace from Femi Azeez secured the victory for the visitors, marking Leeds' first home loss since September. The Whites struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match, delivering an uncharacteristically lackluster performance. Manager Daniel Farke made nine changes to the starting lineup, providing opportunities for fringe players to prove their worth. However, only Sam Chambers and Isaac Schmidt emerged with any significant credit.
Azeez opened the scoring for Millwall after half an hour, cutting in from the left and unleashing a shot that took a deflection off Josuha Guilavogui, leaving goalkeeper Karl Darlow rooted to the spot. Moments earlier, Azeez rattled the crossbar, followed by Luke Cundle heading the rebound wide with the goal at his mercy.
Leeds attempted to mount a comeback, however, their attacking efforts left gaps in defense, which Millwall were able to exploit. In the 55th minute, De Norre teed up Azeez, who cut back and beat Darlow at the near post, extending Millwall's lead. The Whites responded immediately, winning a penalty when Luke Cundle fouled Largie Ramazani. However, Pascal Struijk's tame effort from the penalty spot was saved by Roberts, further dampening Leeds' hopes of a comeback.
With a two-goal lead, Millwall adopted a defensive approach, frustrating the Leeds forwards for the remainder of the match. Despite the disappointing result, Leeds fans may not be too disheartened, as automatic promotion remains the club's top priority this season. The FA Cup exit may allow the team to focus their efforts on achieving their primary goal in the Championship.
Duo could miss trip to Watford
Joe Rodon and Dan James could miss the midweek trip to Watford according to YEP journalist Lee Sobot. The Welsh duo picked up knocks in the 2-0 win over Coventry City last Wednesday, which has restricted their training. It would be the first league game this season the former Spurs and Swansea star would have missed, and has played the most amount of Championship minutes for an outfield player this season, only four minutes shy of Meslier! Dan James' form this season has been exceptional. The pacy winger has netted eight goals and six assists in twenty starts, but his link-up play with Manor Solomon would be a massive loss for the Whites if he is sidelined!
Investigation launched into Millwall tragedy chanting
Millwall's FA Cup victory over Leeds United at Elland Road was overshadowed by abhorrent tragedy chanting from a section of their traveling supporters. While Femi Azeez’s brace secured a memorable fifth-round berth for the Lions after six years of trying, the win was marred by offensive songs referencing the tragic events in Istanbul back in 2000.
Throughout the first half, chants like "Where were you in Istanbul?" and "Always look out for Turks carrying knives" echoed from the away end, provoking justifiable outrage from the Leeds supporters. The insensitive and disrespectful nature of the chants prompted an escalated police presence within the visiting section.
Leeds United swiftly condemned the behaviour, confirming they had reported the incidents to the police. Both clubs have pledged to collaborate with authorities to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the vile chants. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need to eradicate such poisonous behaviour from football grounds.