Daniel Farke has stated that improving at the defense has been one of his’main focuses’ since taking over as Leeds United manager.
Farke was questioned about what he has done to strengthen up the defense during his pre-match news conference ahead of Leeds’ trip to Southampton on Saturday.
Leeds have preserved four successive Championship clean sheets under Farke for the first time since February 2020, when they were promoted to the Premier League.
Only Leicester City and Preston North End have conceded less goals than Leeds this season, with a strong defensive foundation the key to any successful side
New signees Joe Rodon and Sam Byram have each made major contributions, but there is no doubt that the club as a whole appears to be more stronger in the back than in previous seasons.
Farke explains how he has improved Leeds defence
Speaking ahead of the trip to Southampton, Farke claims he has made improving Leeds’ defensive structure has been one of his ‘main focuses’, but insists they can still get better.
“Football is always a complex game. It’s not just to attack to score goals, but we are there to entertain supporters. In order to do this you can focus on solid defending. At Norwich I think we still have the record for most clean sheets in a row.
“We spoke also about to improve our possession, when you are in possession, you can’t concede. To be good in possession and have a good structure when we lose the ball, this was one of my main focuses. Then you talk about defending set pieces, it’s complex work. We are on a good path but we have to make sure we are on it.”
Leeds had the worst defensive record in the Premier League last season, conceding 18 goals in five games as recently as April under Javi Gracia.
It’s a welcome change to see Leeds constantly shutting out opponents, with Watford’s only two chances last weekend coming in the final 10 minutes of the game.
Given the absences of Djed Spence and Rodon last week, Leeds’ defense at full strength is a very interesting prospect.
Leeds had the worst defensive record in the Premier League last season, conceding 18 goals in five games as recently as April under Javi Gracia.
It’s a welcome change to see Leeds constantly shutting out opponents, with Watford’s only two chances last weekend coming in the final 10 minutes of the game.
Given the absences of Djed Spence and Rodon last week, Leeds’ defense at full strength is a very interesting prospect.
