Written by: Oliver Jacobs
Only 17 games to go, the scenario is simple, win them all and promotion is theirs. But this is Leeds United we’re talking about. A history of monumental collapses and an eternity without premier league football who can blame Leeds fans for worrying?
The failures in the past have gone now and this season has a different feel to it. Marcelo Bielsa and his staff have reinvigorated the club, the city and the fans. The playoff final defeat to Watford, the colossal collapse under Garry Monk and over a decade without top-flight football seem to have been wiped out of the memory of Leeds fans as Bielsa’s boys currently sit top.
Despite the late deadline day drama regarding Swansea City winger Daniel James, Leeds sit in a very healthy position at the summit of the Championship table. Leeds targeted James from day one of the transfer window and they pursued him right until the last, but due to strange circumstances in Wales the deal fell through at the last minute, leaving Leeds somewhat short in the wide areas. But as Leeds fans have discovered this season Bielsa and his coaching staff have coped all season making sure they’re never downbeat after an injury or a missed opportunity. Bielsa thrives in situations like this, making the most of what he’s got. On uncountable occasions this season Bielsa has turned to the clubs prestigious academy for help as he’s handed out eight debuts to youth players so far. One of them being Jack Clarke who has been the subject of Premier League interest having excelled in his ‘super sub’ role. Jamie Shackleton another player who has Leeds fans excited at the prospect of seeing him in a white shirt for years to come.
Without a shadow of a doubt these 17 games are the biggest 17 games in the recent history of the club. A chance for Bielsa to cement his place in Leeds folklore.