Marcelo Bielsa has admitted to BBC Sport (23/2, 21:56) that Leeds United have struggled to adapt their game plan to suit their opponent after losing 6-0 at Liverpool on Wednesday.
The Reds ran riot to humble the Whites at Anfield with three goals in either half. The result leaves the Elland Road outfit looking over their shoulder at the relegation zone, having now lost 12 of their 25 Premier League fixtures so far this season – including seven on the road.
Leeds sit just three-points clear of the drop zone in 15th-place after their latest defeat. But Bielsa’s men have played two games more than Burnley in 18th, Everton in 16th and once more than 17th-place Newcastle. They also boast the worst goal difference at minus-27.
Only basement boys Norwich have a poorer goal difference than the Whites at minus-38. The Canaries have struggled to score more than any other top-flight side with just 15 goals in 25 games. Yet have a tighter defence than Leeds, who have conceded the most with 56.
Bielsa admits ‘has been difficult’ for Leeds to adapt in Premier League
Bielsa admits Leeds were poor in their defending and attacking at Liverpool as they shipped six goals. It was the ninth time this term they have allowed three or more in a single game.
The Argentine also admits the Whites cause their own issues by failing to adapt to the side they are facing. A factor that is proving costly as they strive to stay in the Premier League.
“My reaction is disappointment given the result we have obtained,” Bielsa said. “It has been difficult for us to adapt to the opponents, and it has been difficult for us to get the ball to our forwards with clarity. We need to defend better and attack better – both things.”
Leeds will hope to bounce back on Saturday against Tottenham Hotspur in the third leg of a tough run. The Elland Road affair marks the Whites’ third-straight game against a side with a Champions League berth on their radar. But Spurs did lose 1-0 at Burnley on Wednesday.
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