A team in form - how Farke has turned Leeds around

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Leeds United have climbed to third in the Premier League after Monday’s 4-1 home win over Newcastle United, their strongest top-flight opening since the 2001-02 season. The article says the turnaround under manager Daniel Farke has been building for months, following a tactical switch to a back three during a comeback draw against Manchester City on 29 November. Since then, Leeds have lost only five of 29 league matches, a run that has put them among the division’s form sides.

The piece says Leeds’ summer recruitment was built around adding height and physical presence, with most of the permanent signings standing over 6ft. BBC Sport highlights the impact of defenders Tarik Muharemovic and Nico Elvedi, goalkeeper James Trafford, and forward Harry Wilson, describing them as important additions as the club adapted to Premier League demands. The report also notes that Leeds were in the relegation zone earlier in the season before their results improved.

A major beneficiary of the new system has been Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has thrived with more support in attack and has scored regularly since the tactical change. BBC Sport says Leeds are still being cautious about talk of European qualification, but their recent form has prompted renewed optimism at Elland Road. The article places this in context by noting that Leeds have not played in European competition for 24 years, although any such target remains speculative at this stage.