After a rare midweek break, Leeds United return to action on Saturday, welcoming Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth Argyle to Elland Road. Daniel Farke will be pleased to have had a full week to work with his squad following the frustrating goalless draw against Bristol City, a match he believes they should have won.
Leeds United start the weekend in a strong position, sitting third in the Championship table and entering Saturday’s clash as clear favorites against a struggling Plymouth side, currently 21st and just one point above the relegation zone. Here are three key things to watch for ahead of the 3pm kick-off:
Is Manor Solomon ready to make an impact?Daniel Farke’s biggest selection dilemma revolves around his wingers, especially with Largie Ramazani still sidelined and Dan James a doubt due to a hamstring issue. This situation could pave the way for Solomon to make only his third start of the season. The Spurs loanee has had his own struggles with hamstring problems but returned against Watford without yet showcasing his full potential.
As this match kicks off a busy week of three games, Farke will need to manage his squad effectively. If Solomon can step up and deliver the performance he’s capable of, it would provide a much-needed boost for Leeds United as they push for promotion.
The other selection decision seems straightforward, as it would be surprising if Sam Byram didn’t step in to replace the suspended Jayden Bogle at right-back. Byram showcased his versatility by seamlessly filling in at left-back for Junior Firpo last weekend, and his solid performance has earned him the nod for this crucial match against Plymouth.
Is this the game Leeds finally take off the handbrake?As we reach the quarter mark of the season, Leeds United find themselves just outside the top two on goal difference, yet Daniel Farke’s side is living up to their pre-season billing as favorites for promotion. Numerous opposing managers have acknowledged that Leeds is the best team they have faced this season, but this dominance has yet to translate into a significant, confidence-boosting thrashing. Saturday’s match against Plymouth could be the opportunity Leeds needs to unleash their full potential and deliver a commanding performance.
Plymouth has conceded 22 goals in their 12 matches this season, including three in their last outing against Preston and five against a struggling Cardiff side, indicating a significant defensive weakness. While everyone at the club will gladly take the three points regardless of how they come, fans are eager to see if this match will be the moment Leeds United finally take off the handbrake and secure a decisive victory. Given Plymouth’s vulnerabilities, it’s the perfect opportunity for Leeds to showcase their attacking prowess and deliver a statement performance.
Wayne Rooney’s reception at Elland Road is sure to be a talking point as he returns to the ground where he enjoyed many memorable moments as a player. Leeds United fans have a storied rivalry with Rooney’s teams, and his presence on the touchline as manager of Plymouth Argyle could evoke strong reactions from the crowd.
Expect a mix of boos and cheers as the home fans voice their feelings toward the former Manchester United star. How Rooney handles the atmosphere and whether he can inspire his team to rise above the hostility will be crucial in this high-stakes encounter. The anticipation surrounding his reception adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already compelling matchup.
Wayne Rooney stands out as the most high-profile manager Leeds United will host at Elland Road this season, and his Manchester United past guarantees he’ll receive the full pantomime villain treatment from the home crowd.
While we may not be able to print the exact chants directed at him, they are sure to create a charged atmosphere that the Leeds players can harness to their advantage.
Supporters will relish the chance to add to Rooney’s history of tough outings against Leeds, which dates back to his involvement in Leeds’ memorable 2010 FA Cup third-round victory over Manchester United. This backdrop promises an electric atmosphere as both teams take the pitch, with Leeds looking to turn the tide on their former adversary.
Rooney’s history with Leeds United adds even more intrigue to his visit to Elland Road. He was part of the Derby County team that gave Leeds a guard of honor at the end of the 2019/20 Championship season, only to go on and secure a decisive victory against them shortly after. His first trip to Elland Road as a manager didn’t fare any better; his Birmingham City side suffered a 3-0 defeat on New Year’s Day earlier this year, which ultimately led to his dismissal.
With that backdrop, the stakes are high for Rooney as he looks to turn his fortunes around against a Leeds side eager to capitalize on his past missteps. The atmosphere will undoubtedly be charged as fans remember these moments and hope to add another chapter to Rooney’s challenging history with Leeds.