Adam Forshaw has told Leeds Live that new Leeds United manager Sam Allardyce has focused on the mental aspect of surviving in the Premier League since his arrival – and says that it has “surprised” him about Allardyce.
The 68-year-old ex-England boss is the fourth man to take to the dugout this season at Leeds. Jesse Marsch, Michael Skubala, Javi Gracia and now Allardyce have all had a crack at trying to keep the Whites in the top tier.
Leeds currently sit in 19th place, two points adrift of safety with three games left. Newcastle, fighting to remain in the Champions League places, come to Elland Road next. A trip to West Ham, and then Spurs come to Elland Road.
Three tough games, in which Leeds really need to pick up at least four points. Newcastle is arguably the toughest of the three but with home advantage, fans are hopeful. Allardyce’s introduction has also given Leeds some hope.
Forshaw spoke about the new gaffer: “He’s been really big on the mental side of it,” Forshaw said in an interview with Leeds Live. “It’s something that has surprised me. I just wouldn’t have maybe thought [he’d go that way].
“[He] continuously mentions it in every meeting. He’s big on the headspace we’re putting ourselves in. Imagery, meditation, things like that,” Forshaw added. “That’s one thing I’ve definitely took from [his approach].”
Forshaw on what has surprised him about Leeds manager Allardyce
Allardyce will know that with four games, he is not going to be able to get these Leeds players fitter. He does not have the time to improve this squad. What he can do, is tactically, make them better defensively – on the pitch.
What he has got to do off it is improve the morale. Give the Leeds players confidence, impose a feel-good factor around Thorp Arch. Make the Leeds players proud to wear the shirt, so they are in the best head space to play.
Clearly, this is what Allardyce is trying to impose and perhaps the addition of Robbie Keane on the Leeds staff is part of that. All eyes turn to Elland Road on Saturday lunch time – a massive game, and a result is crucial.
