Relief would have been the overriding emotion for many Leeds United fans when Jesse Marsch’s latest comments on the left-back department reached them. An active pursuit would suggest the hierarchy has learned another of last season’s bitter lessons.
The speed and size of investment made in the playing squad this summer, which began days after the Brentford win, always felt like a statement. Six new faces through the door by the end of July’s first week was a message from the top: we don’t want to be messing around with relegation again.
Time will tell on how successful the investment proves to be, but nobody can say Leeds are not at least trying to make amends for last season. Injuries can only be managed so far, but a small squad unable to cope when injuries hit has been rectified.
READ MORE: Inside Jamie Shackleton's Leeds United exit talks with Jesse Marsch and what his future holds
Another of last season’s frustrations was the expectation every member of the squad should be able to play in six different positions. Not everyone has Stuart Dallas’ versatility, that’s just a fact of life, and players were found out all too frequently in awkward roles.
Rounds pegs need to go into round holes and Leeds simply need to have senior, natural options across the pitch, with a back-up in each position. Junior Firpo’s isolation at left-back was a red flag before Australia and his injury only exacerbated those concerns.
With Firpo fit there were no plans for anyone else at left-back. Even after his injury, the first reaction was to see what could be squeezed out of what was already in the building.
Jack Harrison’s experiment didn’t work, Leif Davis evidently isn’t doing enough in these friendlies to reassure Marsch, while Pascal Struijk’s going to be needed at centre-back if Liam Cooper continues to struggle with this Achilles problem. There are too many glaring risks with going through the season as they are at left-back.
If the finances are there to bring someone else in, why wouldn’t you? Yes, it’s another series of hoops for Victor Orta to jump through and another player for Marsch to integrate, but the scars of 17th place tell everyone at Elland Road what happens to small squads.
That’s in a standard squad using a wide formation too. Take the stresses and strains on full-backs in those circumstances and multiply it for Marsch’s narrow system.
Full-backs are going to be pivotal in the success of Leeds next term as they get up and down the flanks, providing width, attacking thrust, but also an open door for counter-attacks. The right personnel on either side of the defence is going to be crucial.
Thankfully, it seems Firpo will have some support on the way.
READ NEXT:
Leeds United's Charles De Ketelaere admission underlines July priority for Victor Orta
Jack Harrison's transfer position clarified amid Leeds United exit speculation
Leeds United dressing room has set its Premier League aims a long way from 17th
Leeds United's faith and patience has paid off if transfer asset has trebled in value
Leeds United confirm seventh summer signing amid Premier League rival's vocal disappointment
