Leeds United head coach Jesse Marsch feels there's been 'full investment in transforming the playing style' since taking charge, spending lots of time in the video room. Observations here from the win over Norwich, in particular how #LUFC press, set traps and hunt in packs.
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Out of possession, Leeds begin with clear, not too distant lines in midfield and defence. As Ayling steps out to dispossess Rashica, Klich moves towards the open space as insurance. All 11 players are positioned centrally within the width of the box - typical of Marsch sides.
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Particularly in the first half, Leeds used Ben Gibson's pass to Brandon Williams as a 'pressing trigger'. As soon as the ball is played, that's James' trigger to engage while Bamford covers the return pass. Rodrigo and Raphinha support by blocking Williams' other out-balls.
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Another example of Leeds using pressing triggers was at Norwich's goal kicks. Krul's pass to Kabak acts as Raphinha and Bamford's trigger. Kabak plays back to his 'keeper while Rodrigo and James hold a central position giving Leeds control of the space, even without the ball.
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Marsch's teams like to set pressing traps, coaxing opponents into playing into a specific area, only then to outnumber them and turnover the ball. Here, Rodrigo is the only one actively pressing until Gibson telegraphs his pass: the trigger. James, Bamford and Klich swarm.
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Outnumbering Norwich in tight spaces again, Forshaw darts in while Rodrigo (19) holds back. Crucially, his 'cover shadow' blocks a simple clipped pass to Sargent (24) which Norwich attempt but end up playing straight to Rodrigo. Now Leeds are well-placed to attack in numbers.
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What about defensively, where Leeds' main issues have been? At this throw-in the back four are organised, Rowe takes a poor touch and three Leeds players swarm on the two Norwich men. Klich is positioned well to move either side if Aarons plays anywhere other than backwards.
🎟 PL2 attendance record is 16,935, as Everton lifted the Div 1 title at Goodison Park in 2017. As of yesterday, #LUFC had sold 8,000 tickets before walk-ups & purchases on the day. Expecting in excess of 10,000 vs Man United U23s at Elland Road tonight.