Leeds United’s expansion and redevelopment of Elland Road has been a long time coming, but the ability to get the plans in motion and a possibility at all, is owed to the Leeds fans.
Leeds are increasing their stadium to beyond 55,000 with plans in place to do so. The 49ers have opted to do this largely because of the support that a one-club City in Leeds offers, with plenty waiting for tickets.
There are tens of thousands on the waiting list and this season, the home support will be a key weapon in the club’s bid to survive in the Premier League, and re-establish themselves as a Premier League outfit.
After two games, Leeds have three points on the board. Daniel Farke secured only his seventh career win in the Premier League in his 50th top-flight match in England, with a 1-0 win over Everton at Elland Road.
Alan Shearer on punditry duty as Newcastle take on Man United.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Alan Shearer highlights crazy Leeds atmosphere as key weapon
While Leeds were never expected to get anything at Arsenal, the 5-0 defeat highlights how important it will be for Leeds to pick up points at home and take advantage of the support they get at Elland Road.
The win at Everton saw Paul Merson describe Leeds’ clash against Arsenal as a ‘free hit’, and so it turned out to be as The Whites were easily beaten. Shearer told The Rest Is Football that Elland Road is crucial.
“It’s no surprise that they have won at home – Leeds, Sunderland and Burnley. That’s going to be key, particularly at Sunderland and Elland Road because of how crazy their fans are. That will be key to them.
“How they get on in their home games. Leeds are not going to be judged away to Arsenal. They have to pick up points at home – and get the odd draw away from home – that’s how one of them can stay up.”
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The verdict from Shearer came after Leeds had struck a deal to sign James Justin from Leicester for a fee of £10m. In his first interview, Justin discussed just how daunting Leeds fans can be for opposition.
Justin even claimed that the Leeds support is among the best in ‘world football’, with both Shearer and Justin highlighting just how crucial making Elland Road a fortress will be in retaining top-flight status.
James Justin while still a Leicester player.
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“I’m excited. The stadium has got one of the best atmospheres in, I don’t know, world football. It is always a daunting task to come here with an opposing team, I am happy to have the fans behind me this time.”
On Tuesday night, Leeds will play their second consecutive away match, albeit against Championship side Sheffield Wednesday. Leeds are expected to win, with Wednesday set to field a much younger team.