Leeds owner Massimo Cellino promised the fans this summer that he would refund the fans their money for the season tickets if the Whites fail to achieve a playoff spot by the end of the season. Then came Garry Monk and the start of the season was not the most promising from the Yorkshire-based side. However, Monk showed an excellent tactical know how to bounce back from the situation and now the Whites are improving with every game.
Leeds United have managed to get 22 out of their available 30 points in their last 10 Championship games and are now sixth in the table after 16 games. They also made it to the quarter-finals of the League Cup, although, Premier League leaders Liverpool will be a big challenge for them. However, their sole focus should be the Championship and how to finish in top six at least by the end of the season.
Monk should consider reinforcements to his squad in January in order enhance Leeds’ chances of promotion. Here are three areas which need bolstering the most in January.
Centre forward
Leeds United have not really struggled for goals this season mostly thanks to Chris Wood who has already scored 11 goals in all competitions. The Kiwi international was strongly criticised for his lack of goalscoring form last season but looks much improved this campaign. However, Leeds’ summer signing Marcus Antonsson has mostly failed to make a name for himself in Leeds’ jersey.
Leeds might have to struggle for goals in case Wood picks up an injury and they cannot let that happen. Monk should go for a backup striker in January who is capable enough to provide cover for the Kiwi.
Left-back
Leeds United do not have a backup for Charlie Taylor at left-back which can prove to be costly for them. Charlie Taylor is having a decent season at Elland Road but there are a host of bigger clubs after him. A January bid from a Premier League side could very well be on the cards. Regardless of Taylor’s future of Leeds, the Whites should get a left-back to compete with him for the starting spot.
Central midfield
Leeds have a lot of options in the middle of the park but they miss an x-factor out there. Youngster Kalvin Phillips and Eunan O’Kane have lined up together in most games in the middle of the park for them and have done quite a decent job. But, when you are aiming for big things like promotion, they should go for further quality. A quality central midfielder, preferably an experienced one, should be Monk’s priority in January.
