Clarke’s Corner: LUFC Rant or Rave, Sometimes Both

The look on Frank Lampard’s face after Derby’s 4-1 drubbing pretty much sums up the Mighty Whites' start to the season. Not only have Bielsa’s boys got rival championship managers quaking in their boots, they have somehow convinced me it is a good idea to get all my LUFC views out in the open. What you can expect from this weekly article are my thoughts and opinions on all the latest Leeds United results, transfers, and on goings down at Elland Road. So, without further ado, let's press on.

It is pretty much impossible to start this week's piece and not talk about the genius in the dugout, Mr. Marcelo Bielsa. As calm as a cucumber, he sits on his blue bucket barely moving an inch. In fact, I am convinced that sight may become a statue one day and he is simply posing in advance. The Argentinian has breathed a new lease of life into the squad without spending millions of pounds, instead rising the likes of Klich and Phillips from the ashes. The question I am still asking myself is how we managed to pin down one of the world's best managers. Rumours have it Bielsa took apart the clips of last season's disappointment before accepting the challenge and, unlike any of his predecessors, has completely revolutionised the club. I have heard more than a few friends and fans this week ask the question: can this be sustained? Bielsa’s teams in the past have suffered burnout after blistering starts to the season. I myself, possibly being naïve but certainly feeling positive, believe we not only have enough depth to maintain this form, we also have the foundations at the club to protect against a poor second half of the season. Fitness coaches such as Benoit Delaval and Ruben Crespo will ensure the players are looked after and in electric form throughout the season.

Before the season began, despite seeing positive changes in pre-season, I did gaze upon the first eight fixtures and somewhat worry we may struggle. Thankfully, thus far I have been out at ease as the starting eleven breezed past the league favourites Stoke (3-1) and not only beat but completely outplayed promotion contenders Derby (4-1). The phenomenal performances could have been disrupted with eight changes having been made against Bolton (2-1) in the league cup. However, when there's players such as Patrick Bamford, Pontus Jansson, and Jack Harrison in a supposedly weakened team, I think we proved we may be able to maintain this run a little longer than first speculated.

In terms of strengthening the squad this season, the signing of Bamford from Middleborough has definitely gotten me excited. The YouTube videos were good but watching him slide his first goal in for the Whites against Bolton was a joy to watch. Harrison, highly rated by none other than Pep Guardiola, appears to be a fantastic addition to the squad. More exciting for me has been the signing of new contracts by Ryan Edmunson and Jamie Shackleton whom, especially the latter, have very bright futures at the club. Now that the window has closed, we may bring in a loanee or two. However, once Forshaw and Dallas are back fit, I believe it wouldn’t matter if we didn’t sign anyone until January at least.

The Whites host Rotherham next at Elland Road on Saturday 18, a side that, although coming into the season as relegation favourites, have managed to win consecutive games after an initial battering by Brentford. From watching the highlights of their opening fixtures, I feel we will be on the front foot most the game and will be far more clinical than both Ipswich and Wigan. The main frets to be faced are set pieces and long balls into the box, from which they have scored the majority of their goals so far this season. Following what will hopefully be a bit of a goal fest, we head to Swansea on Tuesday 21st. This will be more of a challenge once again with Swansea eager to get back into top flight football. They may challenge us for possession which we have so far dominated this season. Nevertheless, the way we have countered teams would suggest that the style of game will only favour us.

In terms of predictions I certainly don’t think we should take a result against Rotherham for granted, but under Bielsa there will be no room for complacency. I would like to see us keep our first clean sheet of the season and believe we should win a comfortable 4-0. Swansea will be more of a challenge, factoring in a long away trip, a few team changes after Saturday's game, and a strong Swansea side. I would be happy with a draw and can see a 1-1 result.

So, with plenty to look ahead to this season and already chomping at the bit for our next game, it's time to answer this week's title question. This will be a feature of the article each week. The question is whether or not after many years of not purchasing a new Leeds shirt, should I invest in this season? I recently purchased a 1972 FA cup shirt which has seen us win our opening three games. If this form continues towards Christmas I believe Santa may have to contact the Leeds United store and make sure they have a medium home shirt in stock, or maybe one of those "psychedelic" ones as Eddie Gray put it.

Thank You for reading the opening feature of this new article. I hope you enjoyed it and look out for a new piece coming each Friday throughout what will hopefully be an exciting season.