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Chris Knight

Javi Gracia hints at ideal Leeds United vision but accepts 'good balance' is needed now

Javi Gracia will aim to excite Leeds United fans through 'offensive play' but admits the current side needs to find a 'good balance' between attack and defence. The new Whites boss made a winning start to life at Elland Road, as Junio Firpo netted the only goal of the game to defeat Southampton on Saturday.

It was Leeds' first top-flight victory since beating Bournemouth prior to the World Cup break, and a result which lifts them out of the relegation zone. The hosts emerged on top following a tense encounter, with Firpo finding a way past Gavin Bazunu in the 77th minute.

Gracia's side impressed with their endeavour without fashioning many clearcut openings against their relegation rivals. The new head coach has stressed his desire to 'create a lot of chances', but feels the club's current predicament requires a more pragmatic approach.

READ MORE: Leeds United ace Junior Firpo hails Whites performance after scoring winning goal vs Southampton

Speaking after the 1-0 win, Gracia said: “I like offensive play. I would like to create a lot of chances. But when I came here when I saw not only the games the statistics as well.

"I thought the team it will be better for the team to find a good balance [between] defending and attacking and today we got a clean sheet. I think is the best way to grow."

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