Leeds United begin the new English Championship season this Saturday with a home game against Brighton & Hove Albion at Elland Road. The summer has been somewhat familiar to last season. An off season spent seemingly penniless and an all too familiar feeling that we're short a few players. In actual fact we're not short of any players, it's just that we don't have an adequate level of talent across the park.
The 3 new signings will add something. Luke Murphy at 23 and a captain back at Crewe Alexandra, looks to have the right mix as a midfielder. His leadership skills are obvious, his talent on the ball critical but as of yet not really tested at a high enough level. He'll get a good test this weekend. He looks a player who will develop strongly at Leeds United, at least it's hoped. The second key signing is that of Noel Hunt from Reading. Hunt will add some experience up front, his guile and movement around the box make him one to be wary of for opposing defenders. He also brings good character to the squad, something that shouldn't be overlooked in football. Hunt may not bang in 20 goals this season but his hard work is sure to lay on its share of assists.
Matt Smith is third signing to date. Smith, arriving from Oldham on a free transfer is something different. Some have dubbed him the Peter Crouch of League One. His lanky frame does not diminish his work on the ball or his ability to move. He will no doubt be a tricky customer although is unproven at this level. The 3 above signings may well be upgrades but the trouble is there is only 3 of them. That means the rest of the squad is essentially last season's underwhelming squad led by Neil Warnock. It's true though that under Brian McDermott's late reign the side did perform better. The trouble is that McDermott still has a squad that is almost entirely to Neil Warnock's liking. Judging by that and the two managers styles of football. This is far from good.
McDermott this week has hinted there may be another departure from his current squad. If so, the plan is to bring in another new player. The trouble is, for this squad to be anything serious this season, 2 or 3 more need to go. I feel we're way over stocked in the midfield. Michael Brown, David Norris, Danny Pugh and even Michael Tonge could be considered surplus if the right players are bought in to replace them. There's the same in defence. Lee Peltier doesn't seem a guy who's likely to be a long term option, neither does Adam Drury or Jason Pearce. Of the above mentioned Norris, Pugh, Peltier and Drury should be moved on. If we could bring in two players, that would be ideal.
My theory on GFH is that they whilst they are not spending money, well, much of it. The lack of spending is down to the fact that the squad is big enough already. It's just unbalanced with too many players in one position and not enough in others. Rather than risk building up a large wage bill, it's easier to come out and say that players need to go before you bring in. I get that. And I agree. GFH certainly appear to have a long term plan and ambition that is based on sustainability. I'm excited about that but also patient because I realize my ambition of Premier League promotion may have to wait at least another season. But knowing that my club is healthy at the same time is an extremely satisfying feeling at a time when many clubs are feeling the pinch financially.
So what are my expectations this season? For me it's all about promotion. I would love to get there but sadly I realize that may not materialize if we can't do things properly in quick enough time. Players need to move on before others come in. With that being the case, the new season may be one of stability and further prep work towards a tilt at promotion next season.
Prediction: 10th-14th
Assuming other players will leave and come in, I do see Leeds continuing to improve. Our football under McDermott has improved and so too has the genuine atmosphere around the club. I believe that will translate into more positive results. The club seems to pulling in the right direction now and the fans will respond. This will be a better season.
Player of the Year : Rodolph Austin
Based of what I've read from teammates this pre season, Rudy is going to be an ever present in the line up and back to the form he's been capable of delivering. I believe he'll benefit from a strong pre season under McDermott. People forget that last season he also came from the Norweigan league and with an earlier kick off date meant an extraordinarily long season.
Young Player of the Year:
It's hard to go past Sam Byram again. Sam aside I'm hoping Dom Poleon can make the grade and that Chris Dawson can emerge from the metaphoric high chair and become a useful first team squad member.
Opening Day prediction:
Leeds United 2-1 Brighton
Got my money on a 2-1 here with goals from Ross McCormack and Noel Hunt. It promises to be a close match up, a real contest that could go either way. No Poyet in charge will hurt Brighton with Leeds the home side doing just enough to see off the visitors.
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