Daniel Farke was tasked with a straightforward objective upon his return to the Premier League with Leeds United this season – to secure the team’s top-flight status no matter what.
The Whites have had a mixed start to the season, accumulating eight points from eight games. While this point-per-game average could be sufficient to retain their Premier League status, Leeds’ recent 2-0 defeat to Burnley has raised concerns as they have only managed one point from the last nine available.
Leeds find themselves in the midst of a relegation battle, with a glaring issue in their goal-scoring department needing immediate attention.
Having netted just seven goals in their opening eight matches, Leeds have the fourth-lowest goal tally in the league. This lackluster offensive output has seen them struggle to climb up the league standings, with only six different players contributing to their goal tally so far.
Of particular concern is the goal-scoring underperformance of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has failed to live up to his expected goals (xG) output, ranking as the worst performer in this aspect since the start of the previous season.
Despite displaying glimpses of quality, including a crucial goal against Wolves, Calvert-Lewin has struggled to maintain consistent performance levels, leading to doubts about his effectiveness as Leeds’ lead striker. His profligacy in front of goal, coupled with the team’s overall lack of cutting edge, highlights the urgent need for a change in approach.
Farke’s reluctance to bolster Leeds’ striking options in the transfer market, along with recent injury setbacks, has further compounded the team’s attacking woes. With a crucial fixture against West Ham looming, Farke faces the tough task of turning around Leeds’ fortunes and addressing the pressing issues plaguing the team’s offensive output to avoid being mired in a relegation battle for the remainder of the season.
