Good Morning. It's Friday 7th November, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road Palace seek fixture reschedule amid gruelling December pile-up Crystal Palace have formally requested that the Premier League reschedule their upcoming December clash with Leeds United, citing an intense and congested festive fixture list. The Eagles are set to navigate a gruelling run of six matches between December 11th and 28th, a stretch that has raised concerns within the club over player welfare and competitive balance. Manager Oliver Glasner has voiced particular frustration with the Leeds fixture, which currently falls at an awkward point in their calendar. Palace’s European commitments are a major factor in the scheduling headache. The South London side will be in Conference League action on Thursday, December 18th, just days before their trip to Elland Road on Sunday, December 21st. This compressed turnaround leaves the squad with little recovery time before a high-profile EFL Cup quarter-final away to Arsenal on Tuesday, December 23rd. Two significant matches in three days present a clear strain, especially for a team juggling ambitions on multiple fronts. From Leeds United’s perspective, the current situation arguably plays into their hands. If Palace prioritise progression in Europe and the domestic cup, Glasner is likely to rotate heavily against Leeds. Fielding a weakened side would be a welcome boost for Daniel Farke’s men, given Palace’s attacking quality. The Eagles boast a dangerous forward line featuring the likes of Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaïla Sarr, players capable of punishing any defensive lapse. A less potent XI could tilt the balance in Leeds’ favour, particularly at home. The fixture congestion also highlights broader challenges Premier League clubs face during the December period, when domestic, European, and cup competitions converge in relentless succession. While supporters relish the entertainment of the festive programme, managers must balance squad rotation, fitness management, and tactical preparation; often making difficult sacrifices to remain competitive across all tournaments. Palace’s request puts the Premier League in a tricky position. Any adjustment must consider broadcasting requirements, logistical constraints, and fairness to both clubs involved. If the fixture is moved, it could ease Palace’s workload but also alter the competitive dynamic for Leeds. Many fans would have already booked their travel arrangements and could lose their hotel deposits or pre-arranged time off work - unfortunately its always the fans that come off worse. please log in to view this image Can Farke’s Side Match Bielsa’s 2020–21 During a recent Q&A, New York Times journalist Beren Cross was asked whether Daniel Farke’s current team could be considered equivalent to Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United side from the 2020–21 Premier League season. Both teams amassed the same number of points after nine games, fuelling curiosity about whether a similar final tally is possible. Bielsa’s squad eventually finished ninth, marking a memorable campaign defined not just by results, but by the thrilling, high-octane style that became the Argentine’s hallmark. Cross cautioned against drawing firm parallels until Farke's group proves itself over the course of the season. He pointed out that Bielsa’s opening fixtures were far tougher, featuring six of the previous year’s top nine, including Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal, which limited them to 11 points at that stage before gathering momentum. Farke's side this season has faced only three of last year’s top-nine sides, suggesting a gentler start. Despite those differences, Cross believes the current squad should have four more points than they do, hinting at missed opportunities in early matches. The comparison, he noted, will be worth tracking as the season progresses. We must remember that the club spent £100m during the summer, and did not have to part with any of their top players. Sunderland (as a comparable) had a much weaker side last season having finished 24 points below the Whites, but are already seven points better off in joint third place. They may have spent £164m, but they also sold £45m of talent. Is there any reason why Leeds won't finish above the Mackems come May? please log in to view this image
I’ve flights for palace game as have severals of the supporters group. Must admit if this is moved I’m done with ever flying to a game again. Couldn’t be arsed with the scandalous treatment and waste Of Money involved
