If Daniel Farke still had some support within the Leeds United fanbase ahead of Sunday’s trip to The City Ground to face Nottingham Forest, he’s now lost it.
Farke had credit in the bank and even a degree of sympathy from supporters going into the season. Many felt question marks over his future in the summer were harsh; the right decision was made to keep him.
There has also been sympathy for Farke due to the club’s inability to improve Leeds’ attacking options. But his decision-making, his tactics, his subs, and other moments have seen that sympathy dissipate.
Even before Sunday’s game, Leeds fans were stunned by Willy Gnonto’s omission. The fanbase has turned and Farke’s position as manager is under intense scrutiny. Danny Murphy has given Farke some advice.
Daniel Farke and Ethan Ampadu after Leeds' loss at Forest.
Photo by Neal Simpson/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
Danny Murphy says what Daniel Farke has to do now at Leeds
Forest was the first of five games Farke had to save his Leeds tenure. The 49ers are considering whether to make a change, as Paraag Marathe looks to avoid making the same mistake as with Jesse Marsch.
The international break is always a worry for under-pressure managers and the November break will prove to be so for Farke. If he survives it, Murphy has told Farke to focus on defence, not the attack.
On Match of the Day, Murphy added that stopping the leak has to be the focus for Farke, even if it takes away from their attacking output: “Their home form is going to be key, with those wonderful fans.
“They do try and play the right way, and they have been competitive. Defensively, they need to tighten up, and if it means creating fewer chances for now, just to stop that flow of goals. Elland Road is key.”
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The 49ers are in danger of losing their biggest Leeds weapon
As Murphy says, Elland Road is crucial for Leeds. That lift of playing at the home of Leeds, in front of the club’s vociferous support, brings another level out of the players. But the 49ers are in danger of losing it.
The 49ers and Marathe have got to listen to supporters. While some may consider it early and even harsh to sack Farke after the defeat at Forest, the 49ers have got to keep fans on side. It is their biggest weapon.
Games Points PPG
Home 5 8 1.6
Away 6 3 0.5
Leeds only survive in the Premier League by getting the most out of their home form and if they are to do that, then they need fans onside. Before Forest, keeping Farke made sense. Now, it feels like the opposite.
If Farke is in the dugout against Villa after the break, the German had better hope for a quick start. The support will turn quicker now and if Marathe holds onto Farke, he is in danger of losing the supporters.