'They’re definitely in that bracket' - Rob Edwards makes Leeds United claim after rout of Newcastle United
Rob Edwards analysed Leeds United’s prospects after their 4-1 win over Newcastle United
Rob Edwards sees no reason Leeds United cannot challenge for European football following their 4-1 rout of Newcastle United.
Any fears lingering after the 6-3 Carabao Cup loss to Chelsea evaporated under the Elland Road lights, as the Whites put the Magpies to the sword in style.
Efforts from Jayden Bogle, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor followed a Lewis Miley own goal, rendering Bazoumana Toure’s late strike a mere consolation.
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Rob Edwards on Leeds United
Former Middlesbrough boss Edwards was on punditry duty for Sky Sports and was asked if there was any reason it could not be Leeds’ turn to play in Europe next term.
He responded: “No reason at all. If they keep people fit, and they keep performance levels consistent, like he’s just mentioned there, Daniel [Farke], I don’t see any reason why they can’t.
“They’re definitely in that bracket of teams now, that will be in the mix, there’s no doubt about it. I keep pointing there, to Elland Road, I’m looking on the big screen, that brings a few more points I think.
“The fans are incredible there and with the intensity they’re playing at, it’s a real fortress, it’s a difficult place to go. Their home form will be key to it as well.”
Leeds United looking to push on
Leeds were in a relegation battle last season, finding themselves in a fight most promoted clubs end up in. Farke’s men steered clear of the drop zone to finish 14th and later boxed clever in the transfer market.
They made some ambitious signings over the summer, spending £40m to prise goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City and £34m to lure defender Tarik Muharemović from Sassuolo.
Leeds also landed winger Harry Wilson on a free transfer from Fulham and brought in Michael Zetterer, Nico Elvedi, Melvin Bard and Jean-Matteo Bahoya.
After two wins and two draws across their opening four league fixtures, Farke’s men sit third in the Premier League table.