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Javi Gracia issues Leeds United rallying cry as desperation grows after Liverpool drubbing

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Image for Javi Gracia issues Leeds United rallying cry as desperation grows after Liverpool drubbing

Javi Gracia has issued a message of there being “seven finals” remaining for Leeds United this season, following the disappointing 6-1 defeat to Liverpool at Elland Road.

After losing heavily to Crystal Palace last weekend, a reaction was needed by the Whites, but it was not to be on the night, with Liverpool inflicting a 6-1 loss to follow on from Palace’s 5-1 battering.

Leeds’ goal difference has also taken a major hit now, making the dropped points even more damaging. Gracia’s team have shipped 60 league goals, which is the worst in the Premier League.

There were a string of poor performances and the game was littered with individual errors, costing them valuably in key moments.

The Whites now head into three key fixtures in consecutive games: Fulham (A), Leicester City (H), and Bournemouth (A). Every match is crucial now for Leeds, but these are next, and potentially season defining, games in the run-in.

Javi Gracia’s Leeds United rallying cry

LEEDS, ENGLAND – APRIL 17: Javi Gracia, Manager of Leeds United, reacts during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Liverpool FC at Elland Road on April 17, 2023 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Speaking post-match, Gracia outlined that it was important to put Liverpool behind them, he said: “There is only one way: try to work, try to improve, try to prepare for the next game.

“It’s hard but I know there is only one way to achieve our objective, try to stay together in good and bad moments.”

He offered his disappointment as to what has gone wrong in the last two fixtures, which Leeds have capitulated in, via Adam Pope he added: “We didn’t compete at our level in this game and the second half last week.”

Gracia attempted to rally his players with the claim that his side have seven finals remaining, he continued: “We have to improve in the seven finals we have to play.”

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Leeds fans will appreciate the sentiment of the old proverbial idea that there are seven cup finals left, but really they all know deep down that the next three will determine Leeds’ safety or not.

Anything less than six points will put Leeds in a worrying position heading into their final four games, which are obviously more difficult fixtures.

The idea of “seven finals” is amusing, too. Gracia’s last final in England came during a 6-0 FA Cup defeat to Manchester City. Perhaps that was not the best phrase of choice, here.

Either way, Leeds and Gracia know what is required now. Seven or eight points may be enough to survive. The players need to stand up and be counted when it matters again.

Will Gracia keep Leeds up?

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