Cardiff City manager Erol Bulut has told Thursday’s press conference – as per his new side’s website – that he is expecting a tough game against Leeds United on Sunday, and said that it is “perfect” that Elland Road is sold out.
So, Leeds are back in the Championship. The start of a new era under the sole ownership of the 49ers, and a new boss back in the dugout. Leeds will be tasked with keeping pace with Leicester, Southampton and Middlesbrough.
Many have left the club – but a whole host of key players such as Tyler Adams, Willy Gnonto and Jack Harrison have remained at Leeds. On Sunday, Leeds will be without Harrison, Adams, Junior Firpo and a couple of other injuries.
But a new system, Ethan Ampadu dictating things, Karl Darlow potentially in goal and the return of the likes of Ian Poveda, Cody Drameh, Charlie Cresswell and Dan James from loans – it is a new start. Bulut gave his verdict.
“I’ve read that the stadium will be full on Sunday, which is perfect. It will be difficult playing against Leeds; at home they play well and are strong with their fans behind them. They’re recently relegated so they have a strong team.
“Two thousand of our supporters is a good number, and we need them. Of course, at home they’re always great at supporting us, and it will be good to have them with us at Leeds. We want to make them happy after the game.”
Cardiff manager Erol Bulut says it is perfect that Elland Road is sold out
Back to the second tier then, for Leeds. A big ask, a tough test. Plenty to prove for the likes of Georginio Rutter, James and other Leeds stars. The Whites need to start quickly, and start well – even with the squad up in the air.
The squad as it stands is likely to look a whole lot different come the end of the transfer window, which slams shut in a month. But regardless, Leeds need points on the board and while at the club, the players must work for that.
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