Leeds United will be delighted with their work on the pitch after three Premier League games, having secured four points from games against Everton, Arsenal and then Newcastle on Saturday.
Especially, given the clash against Arsenal resulted in a dismal 5-0 loss, and the club were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Sheffield Wednesday. Leeds needed to restore the feel-good factor on Saturday.
They came up against a Newcastle side that were missing Joelinton, Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak. Leeds will know that making Elland Road a fortress is key to survival and so far, they have done that.
A second clean sheet, and all four points coming at home against tough sides in Everton and Newcastle. On Saturday evening, Leeds held their own and on another day, could have easily beaten The Toon.
Raphinha playing for Leeds United.
Photo by PETER POWELL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
Raphinha shows Leeds remain in his heart with Instagram post
It is now three years since Raphinha left Leeds, after his 29 goals and assists in 67 Leeds games during a two-year stint, most of which came under Marcelo Bielsa. The Brazil international is shining at Barcelona.
But despite captaining Barcelona and even being a contender for the Ballon d’Or according to Thierry Henry and Cafu, Leeds still remain in the Barcelona star’s heart – as proven with a post on his Instagram.
Amid the Barcelona-related posts and with Hansi Flick’s side not in action until Sunday evening, Raphinha posted a short video of Pascal Struijk leading Leeds out at Elland Road ahead of the 0-0 Newcastle draw.
Screenshot of Raphinha's Instagram story, showing Leeds walking out of the tunnel against Newcastle.
Where Leeds sit in the table, next three games after the break
So that is it for Leeds on the pitch until after the September break. All eyes are now on the last 48 hours of the window, with Daniel Farke making it clear he wants a signing or two before Monday’s deadline.
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When Leeds return after the break, The Whites may boast Ethan Ampadu again after a knee injury ahead of what may be deemed three winnable games. Fulham and Wolves away, then Bournemouth at home.
Fulham have endured a tricky start with just two points on the board after today’s loss to Chelsea, while Wolves have none after losing at home to Everton. Bournemouth will prove a much tougher opposition.