Good Morning. It's Friday 4th April, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road Farke bows to pressure and axes Meslier Daniel Farke finally buckled to public pressure and announced Illan Meslier will be bench for the crunch tie at Kenilworth Road on Saturday in favour Karl Darlow. Many expected Farke to remain loyal to Meslier, a player he's consistently backed, despite a host of errors this season. However, Meslier's clanger against Swansea appears to have been the final straw, forcing Farke's hand and prompting this dramatic change between the posts. The decision carries significant weight. Goalkeepers, arguably more than any other position, thrive on confidence and continuity. Dropping Meslier sends a crystal-clear message: recent performances haven't been good enough. But it also heaps immense pressure on Darlow to deliver immediately. Can Darlow provide the stability and composure needed to shore up Leeds' often-leaky defense? His experience at this level is arguable, and Leeds fans will be hoping his recent appearances for Wales have sharpened his game. Beyond the goalkeeping shake-up, Farke's options for further significant changes seem limited. He hasn't integrated promising young talents like Debayo Chambers and Schmidt into the first team, leaving them largely untested and unable to provide a spark. Furthermore, Ramazani, who showed glimpses of brilliance earlier in the season, has struggled to regain his form since returning from injury in December, offering little impact from the bench. This lack of alternative solutions makes the Darlow decision feel like a last-ditch effort, a strategic gamble. It's a roll of the dice, and its success or failure could significantly impact Leeds United's season trajectory. If Darlow performs well, bringing a renewed sense of stability and confidence to the defense, Farke will be hailed as a tactical mastermind. However, if the change backfires, it could raise serious questions about Farke's management and his ability to arrest the team's slide. The pressure is now squarely on, not just for Darlow to perform, but for Farke to justify his bold decision. The Luton Town match has become more than just a game; it’s a pivotal moment that could define Leeds United’s season. please log in to view this image How many points for automatic promotion With the Championship season hurtling towards its climax, Leeds United find themselves in a tense battle for automatic promotion. Currently sitting second with 81 points, just two behind Sheffield United and level with Burnley on goal difference, every match is crucial. Every point now is crucial, and the upcoming fixtures will define their season. Tomorrow lunchtime sees Leeds travel to Kenilworth Road to face Luton Town. Luton, while not in blistering form, are always tough to beat at home and will be fighting for every point to try and ensure Championship football next season. A midweek trip to rejournated Middlesbrough follows. Michael Carrick's Boro have won four of their last six and will be a stern test for the Whites. Returning to Elland Road, Leeds welcome Preston North End for another lunchtime kick-off. Paul Heckingbottom’s side are known for their organisation and ability to frustrate, making this a potentially tricky home fixture. Six days later, Leeds are on the road again, this time to Oxford Utd, who, like Stoke and Plymouth (Leeds final games of the season), are all fighting for their lives at the wrong end of the table! please log in to view this image
Well hi everyone on this more positive morning Well we got what we were praying for, but is it to late?, Darlow should have been given his chance a long time ago. Darlow is sure to be nervous as all eyes are on him, hopefully his mature years and the welsh experience will stand him well for the upcoming battles with not only the games but with himself. Usually it takes two to three games to get up to speed when your given the nod, however Karl doe’s not have that luxury and needs to hit the ground running. All I can add is is I wish him well for the upcoming challenges.
All I say now is get behind the team in these last 7 games. they need us being positive now. Farke has seen sense even thought I think it was forced with Darlow. lets get behind the team now 100% and help them get over the line. 7 Games to go sitting 2nd you would of ripped someone's hand off being in this position at the start of the season you would think we are in a relegation battle with some of the chat on the socials. MOT We know we can do it and we will.
Did you watch Darlow for Wales!! He collected crosses cleanly, positioning was very good and his distribution was to a team mate, I especially watched Rodin when Darlow collected in a crowded area, he went up to Darlow , slapped him on the shoulder and said something to him, has there been a players meeting with Farke, maybe. Also Ampadau is not ready to start imo, let’s put same team out as we did Sheffield Utd ( minus the Frenchman)and take it from there.
So...didn't get tickets for the Preston game. I've only got tickets twice this season when it's open to members. I've not had any luck on the ballot at all this season. My luck is very Leedsy.
Evening all I don’t believe Farke would buckle to fan pressure, more like he is fully aware of what that pressure can do to Meslier so he’s withdrawn him. Bold move, good move, as has already been said, get behind the team and cheer them over the line 4 Wins and a 2 draws should be enough for an auto
