Leeds United seem to be in a state of meltdown after five games without victory. But it could be worse, we could be Sunderland at the foot of the table.
Last season, a really intriguing narrative in the Premier League was how well Leeds, and more so Sunderland, have fared after promotion.
Leeds battled to survival in 14th, but the Black Cats found their way into the Europa League on the final day. However, they’re paying the price currently.
Sunderland slump to alarming loss at Coventry City after bland Leeds United draw
If you’re still in a bit of a pessimistic mood from our defeat to Bournemouth, your outlook on our form won’t have been helped by the fact that Sunderland were battered by Coventry City.
The Sky Blues look like one of the worst teams in the league, but they put Sunderland to the sword in a 3-1 home win. It’s the same Sunderland side we failed to break down at the Stadium of Light just over a week ago.
Regis Le Bris’ men were rock bottom when we played them, and remain rock bottom now after another horrendous performance and result.
While we’re all lamenting the lack of attacking quality in this Leeds side, it definitely could be worse. Sunderland are that side.
Sunderland issue backing for Regis Le Bris amid 20th-place misery
I am certainly intrigued by the fury at which our result at Bournemouth was aimed at Daniel Farke. Of course, the German has to find answers to our lack of attacking potency. That said, seeing calls for his head seems wildly premature.
That being said, it’s much more of a discussion at the Stadium of Light. Le Bris, for all his work to get Sunderland to where they are, could end up leading them back to the Championship if they’re not careful.
However, Sky Sports’ Keith Downie has reported that Le Bris’ job on Wearside is safe. Even though there’s an understanding that things must improve, he’s got credit in the bank after achieving what he has with Sunderland:
Regis Le Bris, Daniel Farke comparion: Will Leeds United stick with the manager like Sunderland?
I don’t personally think Farke is anywhere near this sort of discourse at Leeds, like Le Bris clearly is with Sunderland.
However, it’s a reasonable comparison to consider. Sunderland, having enjoyed two marvellous campaigns under Le Bris, now find themselves needing answers under his watch.
Leeds, albeit mid-table and doing just fine in the grand scheme, aren’t a million miles away from Farke having to come up with solutions too.
The attack has stalled completely. But at least his defensive structure remains worthy of real praise. Farke just needs to find a way of balancing the two well enough to get wins.
