Should Karl Darlow replace Illan Meslier for Luton Town away?
Nevertheless, Farke’s refusal to make a change is getting to the point where Leeds has lost possibly double digits to one of the offenders.
Despite his lackluster performances in his infrequent appearances in a Leeds shirt, 34-year-old Karl Darlow has managed to maintain his position as Wales’ number one in the meantime.
The time has come for Farke to resort to his backup, as the former Newcastle United player has extensive Championship level experience.
Who should start in goal?
Bad news for Leeds away at Luton – Hatters analysis feeds into Whites’ GK weakness
On paper, Leeds’ next game is another “favorable” match in the final stretch that Farke’s team should be winning at Kenilworth Road.
But you could say the same thing about Swansea at home, Portsmouth away, and QPR away; the last stretch always offers surprises, and Leeds is renowned for being the team that suffers the most from such a result.
As far as the Hatters are concerned, they have been a terrible team this season and may be facing consecutive relegations, but they have given themselves a lifeline with a spectacularly successful own goal against Hull City last time out. Is Matt Bloomfield’s side back on track?
Leeds may face more difficulties if they are playing to their strengths at a tight Kenilworth Road, considering where they generate their chances:
| Stat | Figure | League ranking |
| Shot-creating actions from dead balls | 120 | 1st |
| Dead ball passes per 90 | 51.8 | 3rd |
| Crosses per 90 | 20.6 | 6th |
| Corners per 90 | 5.77 | 4th |
| Average shot distance | 15.3 yards | 1st |
Luton is the team that creates the most shots from a dead ball, has one of the most frequent crossers from corners and open play, and has shots from the closest distance to any Championship team’s goal. However, Leeds are not having any issues there.
Leeds keeps teams to almost nothing in open play, but a team that excels at set plays might be our downfall, particularly when we’re exposed like this—either with a goalie who neither players nor supporters trust, or with a rusty backup who hasn’t played in the league in more than a year.
