Leeds interim manager Michael Skubala believes his team ‘did enough to win’ against Manchester United on Wednesday but the latest Twitter post by SkySports also revealed his game plan for the two matches between the historic rivals.
After Jesse Marsch was fired as Leeds’ manager earlier in the week, Chris Armas, a former United assistant, was back on the sidelines for the team’s trip to Old Trafford under interim manager Michael Skubala.
Even though the Whites had a 2-0 lead, the points were eventually shared thanks to goals from in-form winger Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho. Both teams will now face off at Elland Road on Sunday in the Premier League.
Surprisingly, Sky Sports shared a photo of Skubala’s notes on social media just before half-time. The writing on his little whiteboard looked to read “Close middle,” “Believe,” and “Be calm”; the first directive suggested that Leeds started focusing on United’s midfield in an effort to gain the upper hand.
The strategy appeared to be successful at first as Leeds increased their lead thanks to an own goal by Raphael Varane in the 48th minute, but United fought back to win a draw the game.
– Close middle
– Believe
– Be calm(Unsure of first point) Leeds caretaker boss Michael Skubala's half-time notes…👀📝 pic.twitter.com/j7ei162m5d
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 8, 2023
Prior to that match, Leeds will likely have chosen Marsch’s permanent replacement, but Skubala will work with their team to prepare and he stated in his post-match interview on Wednesday that his team will have extra time to prepare for United.
In training, Leeds only spent 20 minutes working on their shape and he suggested that they would follow a similar strategy on Sunday.
United would have to deal with these tactics as they are already being exposed in the midfielder region. Due to Casemiro’s absence, the Red Devils look somewhat short even if they have Marcel Sabitzer in front of the backline.
Erik ten Hag will have to find his perfect combination and will need to find an effective strategy for Fred and Sabitzer.
