Middlesbrough (H): Preview

It will be another cold day at  Elland Road for the visit of Middlesbrough, with  temperatures again at zero with winter starting to bite. Reflecting on the home games so far, I am not so sure it is quite “fortress Elland Road” just yet. Three wins by a single-goal margin against teams from the bottom half of the table is not convincing but an impressive five wins on the bounce is. Another win today against an improving Middlesbrough will be a very satisfying result and I will be thrilled with a one goal margin.

The team is settled now and most of the supporters will be able to rattle off Farke’s first choice 11 and only injuries will bring about changes until the busy Xmas period. I don’t see any rotation yet, just a regular use of the subs bench to rest overworked legs and to keep the understudies sharp. A 34,000 crowd on Wednesday night was very impressive with the only empty seats amongst the away support which won’t be the case today and there should be a great atmosphere with another full house.

Archie Gray has been outstanding all season and it will be interesting to see what Farke does now DJ Ed is approaching full fitness and match ready. I hope to see Archie moved back into midfield eventually and then maybe there can be some respite for an overworked Amps….he would benefit from some recharging. There is great scope for change in the attack but until Summerville comes off the boil he can’t have a rest. He is so dynamic, full of confidence and with Rutter the nutter they really are cutting like knives through butter. With Gnonto waiting in the wings, to play on either wing, Leeds have outstandingly good attacking options to trouble any team in this league for 90 minutes.

The transfer window will soon be open and I hope there will be availability in the market to bring another striker in. I think Piroe is brilliant but injury to him or Rutter would be a big worry. Joffy isn’t getting a look in and Bamford is ok to come on to protect a lead with a few minutes left. Leeds are now in  a strong position in the league and that needs cementing to make sure we are still in the top 3, at least, by April.

Middlesborough come to us in good form having recovered from a surprisingly poor start to the season. They look strong contenders now for the playoffs and today looks a tough game for Leeds. The winning run will come to an end before long and we might be very happy with a point at 4.50 pm. A first home defeat of the season will bring a horrible week ahead but we have to brace ourselves….things have been going too well recently and that is not LeedsThat !

By David Dean