promotion.

Season Review 2023-24 and Looking Forward to 2024-25 Part Three

05/08/2024 Raymond 0

**Pre-season Hopes:**

Chris Griffin (CG) reflected on his initial hopes before the 2023/24 season began. “The term ‘hopes’ accurately captures my feelings. My primary hope was for promotion or at least reaching the playoffs, although I didn’t think automatic promotion was likely. I was wrong about that.”

Stuart Dawkins (SD) added, “I aimed for stability. With a new coach bringing different ideas, I expected an inconsistent start, hopefully stabilizing into a playoff spot, similar to Southampton’s performance.”

**Key Moments During the Season:**

CG shared his thoughts on pivotal games. “Despite a home loss to Hull in September, I felt optimistic after winning away against Southampton and Norwich. The Southampton match, in particular, was encouraging against a strong side.”

SD expressed his fluctuating confidence. “By March, I expected promotion, but as results fluctuated, I doubted it. The season’s end was unpredictable, with the top four teams alternately failing, making promotion uncertain until it was finally secured.”

**Team Improvements from 2022/23:**

CG noted significant team improvements. “We created and capitalized on more chances, scoring 89 goals. The team maintained fitness and energy throughout games, effectively using the full width of the pitch, especially when Fatawu and Mavididi were established. Despite mixed fan reactions to Maresca’s tactics, the players seemed comfortable, and Hermansen filled the gap left by Schmeichel’s departure as a skilled goalkeeper and shot-stopper.”

SD added, “The team played with a clear plan and strong cohesion, unlike during Rodgers’ final year. They often turned draws into wins and losses into draws, a key trait of a successful team.”

**Season Success Rating:**

CG gave his assessment of the season’s success. “Winning the Championship with 97 points, one more than Ipswich, seven more than Leeds, and ten more than Southampton, earns a 10/10 for me.”

SD concurred, “Finishing top of the league makes it a 10/10. Avoiding financial issues would have improved it, but that was a pre-season challenge.”

‘Fantastic’ Leeds United player could now reject Elland Road contract offer and join Sheffield United

27/06/2024 Raymond 0

Sheffield United are eyeing a move for a Leeds United player that Daniel Farke is determined to keep this summer. Following their recent relegation to the Championship, the Blades aim to assemble a squad capable of securing their third promotion in seven years, and they seem to be targeting their Yorkshire rivals in this effort. At Leeds, the focus has been on potential departures, but aside from Jack Harrison’s loan return to Everton, no significant exits have been finalized despite the transfer window being open for nearly two weeks. Marc Roca is expected to move to Real Betis soon, but no other transfers from last season’s first team squad have been confirmed.

Real Betis eye move for Leeds United defender Diego Llorente

25/06/2024 Raymond 0

Real Betis are actively pursuing a transfer for Leeds United defender Diego Llorente this summer, as reported by MARCA. The Spanish club’s sporting director, Manu Fajardo, is closely monitoring Llorente’s situation, waiting to see if they can compete for his transfer. Despite Leeds United’s need for defensive reinforcements, Llorente’s departure would likely not cause much concern among fans. Having spent the last 18 months on loan with Roma, the Italian club’s interest in signing him permanently has diminished. Additionally, the sale of Marc Roca to Real Betis could also benefit Leeds, as they consider offloading players following their failure to secure promotion back to the Premier League.