Leeds United might have returned from Craven Cottage with a single point but they are still firm favourites to bag a ticket to the playoffs. A 1-1 draw against Fulham ensured that they are still leading the London-based outfit, who are placed 7th in the 2016-17 Sky Bet Championship table, by as many as 8 points.
The reason that there are jovial faces at the Elland is owing to the fact that the Peacocks have been absolutely fantastic this term and are placed 4th on the chart after having collected 65 points from 36 outings in the second tier.
However, one of the pivotal reasons for Leeds United’s domination could be traced to the excellent managerial tutelage of Garry Monk. The former Swansea City boss was aware of the perils of giving assent to managing a club like Leeds United.
The West Yorkshire based club was in doldrums and finished 13th last time around and not to forget the infamous habit of Massimo Cellino who is known to fire the manager when results don’t pan out to his liking. Monk’s reign started with a sporadic run of form but Cellino preferred to act contrary to the popular belief and has, without any doubt, been rewarded with substantial dividends.
Monk signed for Leeds United in the summer of 2016 on an initial one-year contract with an option to extend it for further twelve months. The current deal which keeps the 38-year-old at the Elland Road is set to expire in the summer and the question of extending his contract shouldn’t be a hard one to answer, considering that he has displayed that he is seemingly likely to guide them to the promised land of Premier League football.
Monk has been shrewd with his tactical setup, has made impeccable adjustments during the games more often than not, has instilled a sense of indomitable winning mentality and most importantly, he has been prolific in signing some of the requisite players who were available during the transfer window.
Owing to his sheer professionalism, he has been on the radar of a host of clubs in Europe, including Rangers who were reportedly queuing up Monk as the replacement for Mark Warburton. With an extension, Leeds United would not only ensure that they keep hold of him but will also be able to lend their vote of confidence towards their gaffer which could be an important ingredient to boost his morale as the league nears its decisive stage.
