Leeds United produced arguably the worst performance of Daniel Farke’s era in charge against Middlesbrough.
The Whites were beaten 3-0 at Elland Road by their Championship counterparts in the first round of the Carabao Cup, in what was a worrying display.
Leeds have now conceded six goals in their opening two matches, continuing on from the poor end to the 2023/24 campaign from a defensive standpoint.
Farke made eight changes to the side that drew with Portsmouth at the weekend and aside from a bright opening 10 minutes, it would be fair to say the performance was very disjointed.
Joe Rodon and Max Wober certainly did not click as a centre-back pairing, while the completely different front four were also poor and way off the pace.
Aidy White urges Joe Gelhardt loan
This result should be a real message to the 49ers that the squad is simply not big or good enough, and signings are needed urgently.
With both Dan James and Wilfried Gnonto dropping to the bench, Leeds played without any recognised wingers, showing the real lack of depth.
Both Brenden Aaronson and Joe Gelhardt were bright at times, but nothing really came off for them and it is difficult to see them in the starting XI anytime soon.
In fact, speaking post-match on BBC Radio Leeds, Aidy White believes the performance of the once ‘magic‘ Gelhardt shows that he needs to go out on loan and play regularly.
He said: “I think it would be a case of if the offers were to come in, or getting a player in on loan, and then allowing him to get a loan elsewhere. I think that might suit him because he needs minutes as he’s definitely a talented player, we’ve seen that in spells.
“When you are a young player and game time is mooted, it’s difficult to find any form and confidence. Early on, his intent was there, he wanted to press and go after it, but it didn’t fall his way.
“As the game went on, he grew tired but it’s hard when you’re in that situation as a young player. He probably needs to find something somewhere, and it’s unlikely he’ll get in the starting line-up at Leeds on tonight’s performance I’m afraid.”
Jermaine Beckford shares immediate Leeds reaction
Former Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford was on punditry for Sky Sports for last night’s game, and was asked to give his immediate verdict on the display.
Beckford was left shocked at how poor Leeds looked at the back, but is refusing to be overly concerned just yet at the start to the season.
He said: “It was disappointing that Leeds could not do what Middlesbrough did and couldn’t do any damage. Leeds made five changes prior to the third goal but there is no excuse, no marking runners.
“Frustrated. Based on what Daniel Farke does with his sides, he keeps them well-organised and doesn’t allow too many chances. 17 chances. Ridiculous, based on his previous work, worried? No.
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