Leeds United, a mid-table Championship outfit these days, fighting for promotion was beyond anyone’s imagination prior to this campaign. Former Swansea City boss Garry Monk had a calamitous inception as new Leeds United manager, however, he completely upturned their fortunes after initial stumbles and almost earned them a promotional play-off spot. But the Peacocks bottled it in the climax as they failed to secure a single win in last five league outings and finished their campaign at seventh, one place below Fulham who occupied the last promotional play-off spot following a late resurgence.
Leeds Players Who Impressed This Season
Leeds United were often termed as a one-man club this year following the scintillating goal-scoring run from the New Zealand International, Chris Wood, who netted 27 times in 44 Championship appearances and became the top scorer of the division. Also, veteran Robert Green showed great consistency between the sticks and pulled off plenty of crucial stops throughout the campaign. Former Swansea City attacker Pablo Hernandez played in an attacking midfield role and didn’t disappoint. Swedish international defender Pontus Jansson has been a great addition in the squad who is gaining interest from several Premier League outfits.
Players Who Disappointed The Most
Leeds United lacked options in their attacking third throughout the season as they struggled to find a cover of their big number 9, Chris Wood. Marcus Antonsson started the season brightly, however, the Swedish professional failed to continue his good work. Modou Barrow was brought in from Swansea City on loan during the winter transfer deadline day in order to add some top flight experience as well as versatility up front but the Gambian international failed to break into their starting lineup thus could not serve the purpose he was brought in for. Skipper Liam Bridcutt had a disappointing season as well and lost his place in the squad following a series of disastrous displays in crucial phases.
Season Status
Leeds fans will have mixed emotions at the end of the season. Firstly, they were not at all hoping for a promotion early into the campaign. However, when the Peacocks almost sealed a place within top six in order to earn a playoff spot, they failed to register a single win in last five league outings that ruined their promotion hopes and finished seventh in the league.
Areas of Improvement
Garry Monk, who had done a magnificent job has decided to depart and Leeds now will find it difficult to retain their top resources ( Chris Wood, Pontus Jansson etc. ) for another campaign. The Peacocks need proper reinforcements in almost every department to challenge for a promotion. Monk made some smart inclusions last year and his departure will impact in their upcoming summer transfer window.
Expectations From 2017/18
Monk has set the bar high after turning fortunes around and his resignation is a huge blow in their pursuit of promotion. Andrea Radrizzani, the Italian businessman has completed Leeds United takeover and expected to splash the cash in order to transform them into promotion favourites from underdogs in Monk’s absence. They need to find a proper successor who can follow the footsteps of Garry Monk to achieve greater glory.
