There are several reasons why Leeds now face a return to the Championship after a three-season stay in England’s top flight.
But some telling discipline stats may well be an indicator of a major contributing factor to the Whites’ demise. Leeds had a really poor defensive discipline record in the recent Premier League season, ranking near the top of all the ill-disciplined tables.
The Whites committed the most fouls in the Premier League this season, a stat that tells its own story. The high intensity press used by Jesse Marsch for most of the season – until his sacking in February – may be the reason why Leeds committed so many fouls, as they tried to win the ball high up.
Read more: How far Leeds United and their supporters will travel in 2023-24 season as long away days beckon
But it is something the next manager needs to address if Leeds are to make a promotion push. Whether Leeds continue to play the same way or try to play with more control in the game may decide if they can return to the Premier League.
Leeds must eliminate the amount yellow cards they get in their games too, the Whites placed first in yellow cards picked up this season, receiving 89 yellows. This almost eclipses the Premier League record for most yellows in a season – a record also held by Leeds – when they had 96 in the21/22 season.
You only have to look at the success of Arsenal and Manchester City, who have the third lowest and lowest yellow cards respectively this season, to see that according to the stats, the best teams have a good discipline record. Leeds also had the joint second most red cards this season, with three players seeing red throughout the season.
Robin Koch, Weston Mckennie, Marc Roca and Wilfried Gnonto all amassed seven yellow cards this season too. This all adds up to an unwanted record for Leeds, who need to remove this side of their game in the Championship – a league they should have more control over games in.
Overall, it could be said that the Whites’ ill-discipline was a problem that has lasted a while beyond just this season, but this time it cost Leeds a place in the Premier League.
READ NEXT
Brenden Aaronson speaks out on Leeds United transfer after disappointing debut campaign
Leeds United 'face loan decision' with Brenden Aaronson future up in the air
Luke Ayling breaks Leeds United silence on relegation and his future with right-back battle ahead
Stars align on Leeds United transfer exit with timely incentive for relegation escape
Leeds United mired by takeover developments while Kinnear firms up candidates for quick transition
