Daniel Farke urged to unleash Leeds’ secret weapon against Tottenham as survival battle heats up
Leeds United have started their Premier League campaign with a modest but respectable eight points from their opening six matches. For manager Daniel Farke, the main objective is clear—avoid relegation for a third time and keep the Whites in the top flight.
The challenge is daunting, but history gives Leeds a glimmer of hope. Farke’s managerial record against Thomas Frank suggests that the trip to Elland Road on 4 October could present an opportunity, even against a high-flying Tottenham side who have tasted defeat just once in all competitions this season.
Leeds enter the clash without several key players, yet the momentum is there after a four-point haul from recent matches against Wolves and Bournemouth. Now, Farke will be hoping to turn Elland Road’s fierce atmosphere into a weapon Spurs cannot handle.
Set-pieces could unlock Tottenham’s defence
Against Bournemouth, defender Joe Rodon demonstrated Leeds’ growing threat from dead-ball situations, notching a headed goal while racking up four shots—all from set-pieces. Sean Longstaff also opened his Leeds account with a strike from a corner, proving how dangerous the Whites can be in these moments.
This could spell trouble for Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who has already been exposed as a weak link when defending set-pieces. Opponents have consistently targeted him, and many believe he has now been “found out.” Leeds will look to test that theory relentlessly in West Yorkshire.
A win could be a turning point for Farke
Despite frustrations over a lacklustre summer transfer window and claims that chairman Paraag Marathe hasn’t provided Farke with the squad depth he needs, victory over Tottenham would send a powerful message. Not only would it galvanise the squad and supporters before the international break, but it would also strengthen the belief that Farke can deliver Premier League survival.
For Leeds, the formula seems simple—capitalize on set-piece strength, harness the energy of Elland Road, and put Spurs’ defensive frailties under maximum pressure.