Thomas Frank has questioned Leeds' tactics in their ongoing battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Former RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg head coach Jesse Marsch was relieved of his duties following a loss to Southampton in February and was replaced by Javi Gracia, who after a bright start has seen his side's form dip considerably.
The former Watford boss has presided over successive heavy home defeats raising relegation concern for the club as they sit just two points above the relegation zone. The 5-1 defeat at Elland Road to Crystal Palace was followed by an even heavier 6-1 loss to Liverpool on Monday, April 17 and Brentford boss Frank questioned the role of midfielder Weston McKennie in that match.
Away from his usual role in a two-man double-pivot alongside Spaniard, Marc Roca, McKennie was playing in a more advanced position to support Brenden Aaronson. However, Frank believes the set-up was not defensive enough against a side with the attacking threat which Liverpool possess.
Frank told Premier League Productions : "I think he (McKennie) is too high," He continued. "I don’t know exactly what they want. But there is no holding midfielder.
"You are playing against probably the best counter-attacking team in the world when they are on it. Then they can punish you, as they did."
Leeds' tally of 60 goals conceded is the worst in the Premier League with the two heavy defeats doing damage to their goal difference. In the absence of defensive midfielder Tyler Adam, Leeds have shipped 18 in just five matches.
Frank believes goal difference could be key to survival and has called on Gracia to change his approach if things are to improve.
When asked about what was needed to guarantee survival, he said "[They] need to think about goal difference, defend better. I would be concerned." Leeds currently have a goal difference of -20, having scored an impressive 40 this season. That is better than four teams who are also in the relegation battle, but Frank suggested that there still needs to be a change.
He continued: "The beauty of it is, things change in the Premier League and you can go on and win a few games. Gracia needs to ensure they are more solid at the back."
Leeds face an away trip to Fulham this weekend and could take the opportunity to implement some changes ahead of crucial matches against Leicester City and Bournemouth.
