Grayson dismisses any Elland Road nerves

Barnsley’s 2-1 victory, achieved thanks to first-half goals from Ricardo Vaz Te and Craig Davies, means United have not won in four games on home soil, the joint longest run of Grayson’s near three-year reign as manager.

In terms of United’s league position, the derby loss to the Reds was not too damaging with results elsewhere – most notably Hull City’s 3-2 loss at home to Burnley – meaning the West Yorkshire club still occupy a place in the play-offs.

Despite that, there was an unmistakeable sense of frustration among the home supporters at the final whistle at Leeds’s failure to make home advantage pay for a fourth time in as many games.

Grayson, however, insists the problem is not a psychological one.

He said: “It is disappointing that we have not been able to win any of those (four) games. But I don’t think you can put that down to any one thing.

“The Blackpool game (when Leeds lost 5-0) was down to mistakes that have been put to bed.

“The 1-1 draw against Cardiff was one we would have won but for an outstanding display from their goalkeeper.

“The 1-1 draw against Coventry was also another one we should have won. So, no, I don’t think we are showing any nerves or anything like that. It is not a concern to me.

“Playing at Elland Road has never been a problem in my time here.

“Our home form has, on the whole, been good.

“Elland Road is a demanding place.

“But I think the fans have been good towards the players. I don’t think the players are shying away from looking for the ball or anything like that.

“We are just not moving the ball quick enough and that is allowing the opposition to dictate at times. It was certainly the problem against Barnsley.”