Leeds United’s form under Marcelo Bielsa got off to a superb start, beating the likes of Stoke City and Derby County with ease. Now, Bielsa must freshen things up.
The Whites sprinted to the top of the table at the start of the season. But in their last nine league and cup outings, Leeds have only won twice.
Teams have started to get used to Leeds. Bielsa’s total football, 4-1-4-1 system has been studied and is beginning to be understood by Championship opposition.
Instead of going at Leeds, sides have started defending in numbers and attacking Leeds on the counter. It sees the Whites struggling to break their opposition down, scoring only one goal each in their last five games.
To keep things afresh, Leeds have to change up their formation. Against Ipswich, Bielsa has to consider playing a new system because that will shock and surprise the Tractor Boys on Wednesday night.
One option could be playing 4-3-3. With Leeds boasting excellent options from out wide, the likes of Jack Harrison, Pablo Hernandez, Gjanni Alioski and Jack Clarke could be given freedom to support the striker.
Another is 4-4-2, and look to attack Ipswich by combining Tyler Roberts and Kemar Roofe, who has returned from injury.
Therefore, if Leeds are to maintain their promotion push, it is time for Bielsa to shake it up.