Lee Bowyer discusses if Leeds should keep Javi Gracia beyond the end of the season

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Lee Bowyer has told TalkSPORT on Wednesday that the “proof will be in the pudding” when asked if Leeds United should hire Javi Gracia on a permanent basis beyond the end of the season. He is currently on a ‘flexible contract’.

Gracia, 52, has taken Leeds to 13th in the Premier League table after securing a third win in his sixth game as boss on Tuesday night. A 2-1 win over Forest. That is despite facing Arsenal, Chelsea and Brighton in those six matches.

Indeed, he has watched his side win against Southampton and then Wolves away, before beating Forest last night. Leeds hired Gracia after missing out on the likes of Arne Slot, Carlos Corberan, Raul and Andoni Iraola in February.

But it appears they have almost stumbled upon a gem in the Spaniard. A manager harshly sacked by Watford, and impressed at Valencia and Al-Sadd in previous roles. From a possible 18 points, Leeds have earned 10 under Gracia.

Ex-Leeds star, and now manager Bowyer, was asked if Leeds should hire Gracia beyond the end of the season by Laura Woods on TalkSPORT this morning. He responded by stating that he has to keep on winning, and keep us up.

“The proof is in the pudding. If they stay up, he’s the right man – but if they don’t, he isn’t. All he has to do is keep doing what he did last night. That’s the most-important thing, that they stay in the division,” Bowyer told TalkSPORT.

Bowyer responds when asked if Leeds should hire Gracia permanently

Gracia has already become well-liked among Leeds fans. Of course, points help. But, his calm persona and his wily, experienced approach in press conferences has impressed. He seems like a man in control, and so do Leeds now.

Having experienced the attacking chaos of Marcelo Bielsa, and the unorganised chaos of Jesse Marsch – Gracia has brought a sense of calm to Leeds. A methodical, slightly pragmatic style. Leeds are more defensive, in more control.

But also, still boasting the attacking potency required to stay up. In his six games, Leeds have scored 10 goals. Yes, we have conceded 10 as well in those matches – but he is guiding us to safety despite facing some tough fixtures.