Leeds United, according to Paul Merson, must improve their away form if they are to compete for an automatic promotion spot this season.
On Sky Sports News on Monday (05:17pm), the analyst stated that the difference between the Whites’ road form and their great performances at Elland Road is the atmosphere produced by the fans.
He added that Daniel Farke‘s team must “take a chance” away from home and play as they do at home if they are to finish in the top two this season.
“For Leeds, you can’t argue with their home form,” host Julian Warren observed. “I mean, they’ve won nine, drawn four, and are unbeaten there.” However, they have only five wins on the road. They’ve suffered six defeats away from Elland Road. “Could you explain the distinction between the two?”
“No, I can only say the fans,” Merson replied. “I think it’s similar to Newcastle in the Premier League.” It’s a distinct experience playing there. When I watch Leeds play at home, they’re like Newcastle in that they go for you.
“They play at a high tempo for 20 minutes and try to win.” They don’t seem to play like that away from home. I believe that’s what they need to do: take a chance away from home. Instead of being consistent, play as they do at home.
“It’s easier said than done when you’ve got a crowd like that behind you, but that’s probably what they have to do.” If they do not turn that away form around, they will not automatically go up and will be in the lottery.”
Make a plan
It must be extremely frustrating for Farke to see his team constantly be so excellent at home but stumble away in games where they should win.
The atmosphere created at Elland Road most likely has something to do with that, as the fans make it a tough environment for away teams to play in.
However, two of their five road victories came against the top two teams in the Championship, Leicester City and Ipswich Town.
While the Foxes appear to be riding off into the sunset at the top of the table, the Tractor Boys are clearly there to be caught after failing to win any of their previous five games.
If the Whites can find a way to score more points away from home, they will be in contention come May, but it appears to be a daunting task at the present.
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