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“Leeds United Players’ SHOCKING response to Meslier’s Howler vs Hull. The one DANGER they must avoid
David Prutton has warned Leeds United to be cautious of the promotion pressure that has often hindered them in the second half of previous seasons, following Illan Meslier’s costly mistakes in their 3-3 draw at Hull City.
Leeds began 2025 as the Championship leaders, still holding the top spot as they entered the FA Cup third round, despite dropping points in two late-game instances. However, their lead over Burnley and Sheffield United is slim, just one point, and that could have been bigger if they hadn’t squandered a 3-1 lead at Hull on Saturday.
Daniel Farke’s side were cruising at 3-1 with less than 10 minutes left, after Ao Tanaka’s brilliant goal set the stage for a strong second-half performance from Dan James and Joel Piroe. But Meslier made a costly error, fumbling a header that led to Joao Pedro’s goal before misjudging a corner that allowed Abu Kamara to score the equalizer.
Prutton reflected on the match, praising Tanaka and the midfield’s performance in the absence of Ethan Ampadu, but also pointing out Meslier’s blunder, which let Hull back into the game. “It was a straightforward catch that got City back in it, and you could see Joe Rodon’s frustration with the goalkeeper,” Prutton remarked.
Despite Leeds being favorites for promotion at the start of the season and still being so, Prutton highlighted their historical struggles with the pressure of that expectation. He cautioned that in the second half of the season, Leeds need to be wary of the pressure that comes with trying to secure automatic promotion or navigating the play-offs.
Leeds are still seen as strong candidates for promotion, but Prutton noted that the 49ers Enterprises group, which owns the club, has long-term plans beyond just returning to the Premier League. They are focused on avoiding past mistakes and ensuring a sustained presence in the top-flight, rather than a brief return.
Many managers believe Leeds already have a squad capable of thriving in the Premier League, but Prutton stressed that, whether they achieve promotion automatically or through the play-offs, the summer of 2025 will require significant investment in the squad. Recent promoted clubs like Nottingham Forest, Brentford, and Brighton have shown the importance of good recruitment, and Prutton insists that Leeds’ early transfer focus must be on two key areas.
He pointed out that while the Championship this season might seem slightly stronger, squads promoted to the Premier League need serious investment. “The players who get them up deserve a chance to prove themselves in the Premier League, but you need Premier League experience,” Prutton said. “Above all, you need solidity at the back and a proven goalscorer.”
