Two wins crucial for Leeds to remain in the hunt

The Elland Road club host Nottingham Forest tonight before travelling to Millwall on Saturday.

After being pegged back by a dramatic last-minute equaliser against West Ham United on Saturday, Leeds are five points adrift of Middlesbrough in the final play-off place.

With Boro, Birmingham City, Hull City and Cardiff City of the sides within catchable distance all having a game in hand on Neil Warnock’s side, time is of the essence if United are to launch a concerted bid for the top six.

Connolly said: “We are still in the hunt. We are 10th in the table and it is far from over. We are not a team who gives up, as we showed against West Ham.

“Nottingham Forest is now a must-win game. But if we can win then that is four points from six to send us to Millwall with confidence.

“I think it will all be determined after Millwall. We need to win both games.”

As desperate as Leeds are to make the play-offs, Warnock’s squad also appreciate that it will take a dramatic turn of events.

Even if United do not force their way into the top six, Connolly insists the future is looking bright at Elland Road.

He said: “If it doesn’t happen this year – and I am not saying it won’t – then we will come back next year firing.

“I have another year but I am still playing for my future. It doesn’t matter how long you have on a contract, it is all about how you do now.

“It does feel good to be back in the side and I want to stay in for the rest of the season. I want to stay in the manager’s thoughts as I am sure he wants to bring lads into the club next season.

“If I can twist his arm and persuade him not to bring in another full-back during the summer then, hopefully, I will stay in his plans.

“This is a great club and everyone wants to be here. The atmosphere against West Ham was unbelievable. It was like the play-off semi-finals.”

Danny Collins’s late equaliser for West Ham was not only a blow to United’s promotion hopes, it also prevented Warnock’s side from collecting a fourth clean sheet in five games under him.

Despite that, Leeds can still take comfort from the strides that have been made defensively over the past month – something Connolly puts down to the whole team. He said: “It is not just the defenders, it is the people in front of you. It is the lads in front who deserve the credit.”

Last six games: Leeds United WDLDWD, Nottingham Forest WWDLWL.

Last time: Leeds United 4 Nottingham Forest 1; April 2, 2011; Championship.

Referee: E Ilderton (Tyne & Wear).