Sam Allardyce has opted to change Leeds United’s training sessions this week from Thorp Arch to Elland Road in order to prepare his side for their final game of the season against Tottenham.
Leeds know that their survival is out of their hands heading into the final game of the season, with a win against Spurs potentially not enough to clinch survival if Everton can avoid defeat.
A home clash at home to Ryan Mason’s side could be the last Premier League game the club hosts with relegation more than a distinct possibility.
What has Allardyce been doing to prepare?
There’s very little time for Allardyce to have stamped his mark on the Leeds side, given the short window in May that he has had with the squad.
However, the style of play is there for all to see with the side prioritising better defending more than they are better attacking.
The Daily Mail [May 26, page 73] have now reported, though, that the manager is trying to gain a psychological edge for his side by making them train at Elland Road instead of Thorp Arch.
“The team usually train at Thorp Arch, 20 miles north of the city, but boss Allardyce wants his squad to feel more comfortable at their stadium, having won just two Premier League home games since Bonfire Night.”
Leeds team news
The Whites are likely to be without at least three players this weekend in Stuart Dallas, Tyler Adams, and Luis Sinisterra, but Allardyce will be sweating on the fitness of two key attackers.
Both Patrick Bamford and Rodrigo picked up injuries in the defeat to West Ham last time out, with Bamford forced off in the first half while Rodrigo remained on the pitch to give Leeds a chance of scoring – as he limped around the field late in the game.
Junior Firpo should be back in the squad after serving his one-match suspension.
Leeds v Spurs predictions?
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It’s an intriguing tactic, and it will definitely help training in something closer to the match environment, because these players need to be mentally a lot stronger.
One of the main concerns with the side this season is how little it takes for them to crumble in each game when a setback occurs.
We cannot afford for any mistakes if we want to stand a chance of staying in the Premier League this Sunday.