It has been a mixed start for Leeds United in the Premier League so far this season. The Whites currently sit in mid-table with eight points from their opening six matches, seven of which arrived in their first three, and just one since.
Leeds have unexpectedly been handed a one-month break from fixtures in September, with their next match against Aston Villa on October 2 29 days after their last outing at Brentford. While this has undoubtedly disrupted their rhythm, what it can do is provide Jesse Marsch with the opportunity to work on some of their weaknesses from the season so far.
So with that in mind, here is a look at two improvements he will be looking to implement ahead of their clash with Villa.
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Defensive transition
While there are always risks given the type of football Marsch is looking to implement at Elland Road, Leeds leave themselves prone to counter-attacks too often. Should a team play through Leeds’ high press, the centre backs are often left very exposed with the remainder of the side ahead of the ball.
That is the risk that comes with playing this system but where Leeds can improve on this isn’t so much in the press, but when they are actually in possession. A lost ball in the attacking half should not leave them in as much trouble as it does.
Set-piece delivery
The quality and variation of set-pieces has been a staple of a Marsch team throughout his management career. He is always looking to create different ways in which to score from them during matches, but they can only be implemented if the delivery is right.
Leeds did actually start the season well in these situations, scoring against both Chelsea and Southampton, but since then it has been poor. Jack Harrison and Brenden Aaronson are the two main set-piece takers and simply must find more consistent deliveries.
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