Do they have what it takes to compete this season? We asked Leeds fan Tom Maston (@maston91) for his opinion.
What would be a dream season for you?
Promotion would be the obvious aim, and after the disappointment of just missing out on the play-offs last season, if we can go one step further then it will be a fantastic achievement. However, I would like to see us finish in the top two, as we don’t have the greatest record when it comes to play-off campaigns.
What would be your worst nightmare?
After our three seasons in League One, I can’t even contemplate dropping down to the third level of English football again. Relegation is every club’s main fear, and after a summer of limited spending, my fellow Leeds fans are scared it could be a real possibility.
What do you think of your club’s summer transfer activity?
After the loss of Kasper Schmeichel, Bradley Johnson and Neil Kilkenny, I felt that we needed to bring in five or six players. However, Ken Bates seems reluctant to spend a lot of money on the squad, and despite the additions of Andy Lonergan, Paul Rachubka and Michael Brown, I still feel we are short in a couple of positions, namely central midfield and left back. Injuries to Luciano Becchio and Davide Somma has left us with a limited amount of firepower, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we were to bring in a striker on a loan deal before the end of the window.
Who will be your most important player/s this season?
The front three of Becchio, Robert Snodgrass and Max Gradel will be key if we are to score the same amount of goals that we did last year, whilst new captain Jonny Howson has another massive season on the cards. Paddy Kisnorbo’s return from injury could be like a new signing, and if he can continue his form from before he got injured, he could be the man to sure up our leaky defence.
Any players you would happily see the back of?
Fede Bessone was the major disappointment of last season, and it seems only a matter of time before he leaves. Otherwise, I am pretty happy with the players we have, if not with the actual make-up of the squad as a whole.
Do you have the best manager for the job?
I think so. Simon Grayson gets some unnecessary stick from sections of our supporters, but as a fan himself, he always puts the club’s fortunes first.
Opposition players that you respect?
In the Championship, there are a many experienced players who maybe should be playing at a higher level. West Ham have a number of these kinds of players i.e. Kevin Nolan and Scott Parker. Other players who I think should be plying their trade in the Premiership include Shane Long, David Stockdale and Barry Ferguson.
Opposition players that you despise?
There aren’t many in the Championship that immediately spring to mind, but if we were to be drawn against that team from Old Trafford, it would be more taxing to find someone who I didn’t absolutely hate.
Best away fans/ground in your league?
There are a number of fans who tend to help the atmosphere at Elland Road, including Leicester, Cardiff and Middlesbrough. I’m sure the relegated teams will also bring large followings, whilst a trip to Upton Park will probably be the highlight for many of the fans.
Which teams do you really want to beat this season?
If we beat West Ham and Leicester then hopefully we won’t be far away from being promoted, whilst beating our “local” rivals Barnsley, Hull and Middlesbrough would also be quite sweet.
Finally, where do you honestly think you will finish?
I honestly can’t see us finishing above mid-table, and a poor start could see us facing a difficult season.
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