Report hints at key Leeds United change under HeckingbottomPublished 17 mins ago on February 7, 2018
By Alfie Burns
A report from Leeds Live have been debating how Leeds United could line-up under Paul Heckingbottom, with it thought that the Whites could move away from their favoured 4-2-3-1 formation.
Under Garry Monk last season and this year under Thomas Christiansen, Leeds have favoured a 4-2-3-1 formation, with two holding midfielders and a more advanced central player – usually Samuel Saiz or Pablo Hernandez.
However, Christiansen’s sacking on Sunday evening, combined with Heckingbottom’s appointment less than 48 hours later could see a shake-up at Elland Road, with the former Barnsley boss favouring a 4-1-4-1 formation.Heckingbottom’s favoured formation sees one midfielder sit, with two in a more advanced position with more licence to join the striker.
Leeds currently sit 10th in the Championship table, seven points adrift of the top-six, however, the Whites are hoping Heckingbottom’s appointment will lead to an upturn in results, with the Whites without a victory across all competitions since Boxing Day.
Heckingbottom will take charge of his first game this weekend against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, with the new Leeds boss welcoming back Kalvin Phillips and Eunan O’Kane from suspension.
The Verdict
Leeds’ 4-2-3-1 formation looked to have been found out, both under Monk and Christiansen, with the Whites failing to adapt to in-game situations.
A change in formation would be welcome at Elland Road, but Leeds’ supporters will have their concerns over where Saiz would fit into a 4-1-4-1 formation.
How Heckingbottom sets Leeds up against Sheffield United will be interesting, with the Whites in desperate need of some positive results.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/report-hints-at-key-leeds-united-change-under-heckingbottom/