Latest Leeds United news: Alan Hutton issues a clear Daniel Farke warning as the Whites target promotion to the Premier League.
Leeds United have received a strong warning from Daniel Farke, despite their Championship success this season. Following a poor December, Leeds are yet to suffer a league defeat in 2024, with the narrow FA Cup loss to Chelsea being the only blemish on his record.
In recent weeks, the Whites defeated promotion rivals Leicester City, as well as Stoke and Sheffield Wednesday. Meanwhile, Southampton and Ipswich have had mixed performances, with Leeds now only three points behind the Foxes, who appeared to be the clear leaders just a few weeks ago.
Leeds have nine Championship games remaining and are only one point clear of Ipswich and six points ahead of Southampton, despite the fact that Russell Martin’s side has a game in hand and must still face Leeds in the coming weeks.
With the Premier League in their sights, Leeds fans will be hoping for a rapid return to England’s top flight; however, they have been warned that if they get promoted, a reality check may be in store. “I can see him being there for a long time,” former Tottenham and Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton told Football Insider. “As long as the results keep flowing, he will stay. But we’re not fools; we understand how football works.
“If the results begin to deteriorate and they fall short of making the playoffs, it may be time for a different debate. But I don’t see it occurring with the form they’re using. The roster they have and the manner they’re playing right now provide them with confidence and momentum.
“Farke has done a tremendous job, and whether he gets them promoted first, second, or through the playoffs, he deserves what comes his way. The main question is what he can do moving forward if they make the Premier League; his record there isn’t fantastic. But it’s a massive job that he’s clearly relished.”
According to Hutton, Farke’s Premier League record with Norwich is dismal. During his two seasons in the division, he was relegated, and his second term saw him create an unwelcome record by losing 15 consecutive league games with the Canaries.
However, it is worth noting that the group he now possesses at Elland Road appears to be better prepared for the Premier League. Given how they fared against Chelsea in cup competition at Stamford Bridge, Leeds’ instant return to the Championship if promoted this season may not be a given.
