You must do the Extraordinary things to get promoted

Leeds United Forced to Settle for Play-Off Spot After Missing Automatic Promotion

Leeds United were unable to secure an automatic promotion spot, having to settle for a place in the top six after failing to pull off the miracle needed to leapfrog Ipswich Town on the final day of the Championship season.

The Whites needed to beat Southampton at Elland Road while hoping relegated Huddersfield Town could upset Ipswich at Portman Road, an unlikely scenario that did not materialize.

Leeds must now shift their focus towards preparing for a potentially grueling play-off campaign, which presents them with a second chance at promotion.

Martin O’Neill believes Daniel Farke faces a significant challenge in getting Leeds back on track, but the manager’s previous promotion experience needs to come into play during this crucial period.

Leeds Must Defy Championship History to Achieve Promotion

After another defeat against Southampton, a team they could potentially face in the play-off final, it would be fair to say that Leeds fans are not overly confident heading into the play-offs.

Until recently, Leeds were well on course for a top-two finish, sitting at the top of the table after a remarkable run of 12 wins in 13 matches following the turn of the new year.

However, a dismal run of just eight points from their final eight games saw their hopes of automatic promotion evaporate, a period which included four defeats in their last six matches.

Research from LUFC Data reveals that no side in Championship history – since the league became a 46-game season – has ever won the play-offs after enduring such a poor run of form to end the season.

With this in mind, Farke must find a way at Thorp Arch this week to restore his side’s belief and confidence if they are to achieve promotion.

All Play-Off Contenders in Poor Form

While Leeds’ recent form is undoubtedly the worst among the play-off contenders, they are not the only side struggling.

Prior to their win at Elland Road, Southampton had lost three consecutive matches, while West Brom ended their campaign with three straight defeats before a 3-0 victory over Preston North End on the final day.

Leeds’ opponents Norwich finished the season winless in their last three games, including a defeat at Birmingham City on the final day.

The winners of this season’s play-offs may well be the side that can rediscover their best form the quickest.