With Leeds United players not involved at the World Cup due back at Thorp Arch today for fitness testing, attention will now be directed towards the Whites' return to Premier League action in exactly a month's time when they host reigning champions Manchester City on December 28.
Head coach Jesse Marsch will undoubtedly be keen for his side to return to competitive action in an impressive manner, particularly after the way in which they rounded off the first section of the season with two wins and an unfortunate 4-3 defeat at Tottenham.
However, the Yorkshire outfit face a tricky set of fixtures to come back to with a trip to Newcastle on New Year's Eve as well matches against West Ham and Aston Villa to follow Manchester City.
This period will be the perfect time for Marsch to address and evaluate his squad with Leeds sat in 15th position with 24 league matches still to be played and therefore their season could still end up heading in multiple directions.
But what does the American head coach need to do between now and that first match back against Pep Guardiola's side in a month's time?
Address the defence
There are no bonus points for guessing that the major issue Leeds have faced this campaign, yet again, has been their defence. Only Nottingham Forest, Southampton and Bournemouth have conceded more goals than the Whites' 26 thus far this season and had Marsch's side not found the back of the net on 22 occasions this term, they would certainly find themselves in a more precarious position.
It feels as though the defence has been the major issue for Leeds since their return to the Premier League, yet the gaps still haven't been plugged and Marsch needs to quickly find a solution that allows his side to find the perfect balance between fluidity in the attack and solidity in the defence.
However, that solution may come in the form of a January recruit which nicely leads into the next point on his to-do list.
Identify January targets
With the winter transfer window set to open on January 1, Marsch and the Leeds hierarchy must ensure that regular conversations are being had regarding potential targets to allow them the best possible chance of having a successful transfer window.
Undoubtedly, addressing the defence will be a priority but adding depth to the Leeds roster across the pitch would certainly be welcome with the first 14 matches of the season showing how competitive the Premier League really is this season.
Granted, well over half of the season is still left to be played, however, Leeds are just two points off of the relegation zone whilst also being four points off of the top half and seven off of the top six, emphasising that there their campaign could still head towards a variety of potential narratives.
Find best possible team
Admittedly, new signings could affect this from being an immediate process, however, Marsch and Leeds will certainly benefit from having a familiar starting line up.
The American started to show signs of knowing his preferred team in the final matches before the World Cup break, particularly with Crycensio Summerville bursting onto the scene once given a chance, but a similar-looking starting XI on a regular basis will benefit the Yorkshire outfit.
Work with Patrick Bamford
Arguably one of the more disappointing players this term has been Patrick Bamford, who has looked like a shadow of the player who scored 17 and assisted eight in the Premier League during the 2020/21 campaign.
The form of Rodrigo has certainly helped Leeds whilst Bamford has sustained his drought, however, next week will mark the one year anniversary of the striker's last Premier League goal.
Injuries have certainly played their part but now Marsch has the opportunity to work with the 29-year-old without the pressure that comes from a fixture schedule and, hopefully, start the process of unlocking the Englishman once again.
READ NEXT:
Leeds United have already cleared first hurdle in face-to-face January transfer window talks
Kiko Casilla's surprise move, unfulfilled potential and Leeds United racism scandal
Dallas reunion, transfer window plans, Adams void, Firpo slump and Leeds United's 31-day projects
Leeds United return ahead of testing regime with training camp and friendlies in the offing
Leeds United's Tottenham clue and transfer record may expose overpriced premium
