Leeds United demonstrated their new style of play under Javi Gracia as the Whites stretched the pitch to utilise the flanks during the 1-0 win over Southampton, while also setting a new record for passing accuracy this season.
It was a telling sign that one of Leeds' full-backs, Junior Firpo, was the one to make the difference against the Saints. Width, width and more width was the order of the day under Gracia as the Whites looked to spread the ball to their wide players as much as possible.
Firpo and Luke Ayling will no doubt go on to be key players under Gracia if the win over Southampton was any indication of what the rest of the season has in store. Wilfried Gnonto also showed glimpses of his quality in the wide areas as he looked to take on the opposition defenders at will.
ALSO READ: Every word Javi Gracia said on Leeds United injuries, Firpo, Elland Road, changes and next steps
And Leeds' width under Gracia is no coincidence. One look at the passing map from the game shows that there was a clear mandate spread the play wide, with an overwhelming number of the 507 attempted passes heading towards or down the touchline.
In fact, Leeds completed 432 of those 507 attempted passes ensuring they had a staggering pass accuracy of 85.2 per cent - higher than the 85.1 per cent that league leaders Arsenal have managed on average so far this season.
Even more telling however, is the fact that Leeds' passing accuracy was not only a new record for the season, but that it is also higher than they managed to record in any game under Jesse Marsch.
Marco Silva will be hoping that Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson are well prepared ahead of Tuesday night's FA Cup clash, as Gracia will look to exploit the opposition full-backs as much as possible once again.
READ NEXT:
How Leeds United's relegation picture looks as Whites benefit from Premier League results
Leeds United ace Junior Firpo hails Whites performance after scoring winning goal vs Southampton
Leeds United player ratings as Junior Firpo digs hosts out of a hole with late Southampton winner
Leeds United 1-0 Southampton - give us your player ratings as Junior Firpo goal seals victory
Leeds United transfer rumours as Tottenham set to 'battle' Whites for £13million Serie A star
