We went into this match without a win in the premier league this season and a raft of injuries and a suspension. Playing against a West Ham side that made into Europe last season. West Ham are a much improved outfit from the side that beat us last season. Never more have we needed that eleventh man – a sell out at Elland Road. Still it was not enough and again we ran out of steam. The patched up team was injurious in defeat.
Mix of experienced, new, and under 23s playing tonight. Alongside a lack of centre halves with Phillips playing out of position there. Opportunity for Daniel James to shine. Rodrigo needs to show he is worth his sign on fee which had been missing recently. And Joe Gelhardt ready to impress in the first team. But will the mix gel together?
A much improved display but still not yet firing on all cylinders with the lack of firepower on goal. So slightly disappointing to see Leeds not put the game to bed.
The initial promise last season when Leeds United rattled Liverpool FC in their first game of the season was missing today – is this a sign of second season syndrome?
After such a promising build up there is no worse way to start a season. Losing so miserably to Manchester United is the worst. After Bielsa and Meslier had both signed new contracts the signs were promising. But it was not meant to be.
It was great to see Leeds fans in full force after 15 months of fake football noise. Hernandez and Gerardo started for their last match and at Elland Road with a crowd – this was just as important as the match itself
It was breathless and signified the difference between the two sides: lots of toothless pressing from Southampton, ruthless counter attack by Leeds, and maximum energy till the whistle blows.
So far only Brighton have beaten Leeds in the last nine matches. And despite a strong start by Burnley, Leeds took control of the game playing with speed, passing and chasing off the ball. With Rodrigo brought on leeds had the last laugh.
This was a superlative team effort today with the quality of passing and moving to create the opportunities relentless. And a defence led by Llorrente that stood up to Kane, Bale and Son. Leeds have now in 2021 seen off all the top teams with a draw or win. Spurs' champions League hopes are killed off.
We went into this game on the back of a solid run without losing in six games to big teams. However, with the loss of two key players, a secure mid table place we were probably not as prepared or as hungry as Brighton who were looking to secure their place in the premier league for next season.
