Leeds United v Bristol City: Garry Monk content Whites remain ahead of schedule

IT SHOULD come as no surprise to anyone who knows Garry Monk that the head coach's reaction to Leeds United's disappointing weekend result against Cardiff City is considered, calm and reasoned.
Leeds United head coach Garry Monk.Leeds United head coach Garry Monk.
Leeds United head coach Garry Monk.

While alarm has been expressed in some quarters by the manner of United’s loss and a perceived drop-off in results and performances following last month’s outstanding display against Derby County, Monk is confident that the Whites remain on message to achieve their aims this season.

While frustrated with the weekend setback, Monk has stressed that Leeds remain well ahead of schedule by being in the top six, with perspective required on Saturday’s events.

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Monk, whose side tonight face a Bristol City team who have not won away from Ashton Gate in the league since September 24, said: “My job as a manager and the job of the players is to be balanced and put perspective.

“This was a new group who were assembled in the summer and we felt that we were building from scratch and putting a process in place for the players to improve and move forward, which they have done.

“Perspective wise, they are in a position that, outside of this group, no one perceived that they would ever be in. So they need to keep focused and balanced and keep enjoying what they are doing and the situation they are in.

“We are probably one of the only teams in and around those top places in the league that wasn’t expected to be there and to be there in the way we have done it.

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“I am very proud of these players and they work exceptionally hard and go out every game to try and win. Sometimes, it goes for them, sometimes, it does not. But more often than not, we have got it right.”

Defender Pontus Jansson is back in training after missing Saturday’s game with a throat infection and could make the squad.

Monk’s only main injury absentee is Charlie Taylor (Achilles), with his major decision being who will replace the suspended Liam Bridcutt, with Eunan O’Kane the favourite.

Last six matches: Leeds United LWLWLL Bristol City WLLDWD.

Referee: J Simpson (Lancashire).

Last time: Leeds 1 Bristol City 0; January 23, 2016; Championship.