'Leeds must learn from the errors of the past'

On January 22 2022 when Leeds lined up against Newcastle at Elland Road, their bench consisted entirely of youth players.

Goalkeeper Kristoffer Klaesson was joined by outfield players Tyler Roberts, Lewis Bate, Joe Gelhardt, Leo Hjelde, Stuart McKinstry, Liam McCarron, Kris Moore and Nohan Kenneh.

Five games later, and after a run of only two wins in 12, Marcelo Bielsa was sacked.

That season was United's second back in the Premier League and it is still baffling there was not more investment after finishing ninth the previous campaign.

Strength in depth was a huge problem under Marcelo. The Argentine liked a small squad but his attitude and a lack of available transfer funds left Leeds lacking proper experienced back-ups.

Whites' owners 49ers Enterprises and Daniel Farke cannot afford to make this mistake.

Leeds chairman Paraag Marathe also knows the consequences of leaving business too late in the window.

Before last season's NFL campaign, the 49ers' negotiations with their wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk took almost the entire summer - meaning he was unable to train with the squad. Both Aiyuk's form and the team suffered.

Leeds must learn from the errors of the past.

In the out-of-contract Junior Firpo and Sam Byram, United know what they can expect. The pair are settled here and would be superior back-up to untested youth players.

Manor Solomon is another of last season's squad who it would make sense to bring back.

Meanwhile, Leeds have had a long-term interest in bringing Aston Villa's Emi Buendia to Elland Road. The player has worked under Farke before and a loan may suit both clubs.

These are the kinds of transfers that will add depth and can and should be done early, so the club can then focus on bringing in the quality needed to avoid a relegation scrap.

Find more from Adonis Storr at The Roaring Peacock