The Telegraph say Sam Allardyce has been putting on after-training sessions for Leeds United’s attacking players in order to hone in on their shooting, and final third work – something Jesse Marsch and Javi Gracia did not prioritise.
Leeds have not struggled in the final third this term, scoring 44 goals – more than eight other Premier League sides. But while they scored plenty, there have been plenty of missed chances. Bamford against Leicester, for example.
With Allardyce instilling a much more pragmatic approach since arriving, the Leeds attack will be given less freedom in the final third. It means that when they do get their chance, they have to take it. As Rodrigo did at The Etihad.
Jack Harrison, Cree Summerville, Willy Gnonto, Patrick Bamford, Rodrigo, Georgie Rutter and others have had the chance to sharpen their finishing with sessions put on after training, alongside a legend striker in Robbie Keane.
It is something Jason Burt from The Telegraph reports that Marsch and Gracia did not do, or prioritise, during their time at Leeds. Perhaps a throwback to old school coaching, but practice makes perfect and could do the trick.
Allardyce putting on after-training sessions for Leeds attacking players
It is a big debate as to who will start for Leeds in the final third against Newcastle on Saturday. Rodrigo came off the bench to score against Manchester City. But Bamford is the one Allardyce has spoken about regularly in pressers.
Gnonto is likely to start as is Harrison. But Summerville will be used, as will the one that does not start in Rodrigo or Bamford. Rutter is also an option and could be used later on if needed. It is a sign Allardyce is doing all he can.
Can Leeds do it? There is certainly a better feeling around Elland Road, and among the fans. Allardyce seems to have instilled a confidence in the Leeds players. But Eddie Howe’s side are on fire, and will be a tough proposition.
