Brown’s backing Bielsa boys to get back with a bang
MICHAEL BROWN is tipping Leeds to return to Championship action in style – and then seal their place back in the top flight for the first time since 2004.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side travel to Cardiff today knowing that a handful of wins in their last nine games will end their 16-year absence from the Premier League.
They can also extend an unbeaten run dating back to February 8.
Plenty has happened in the meantime with Leeds at one time looking at the prospect of having their fate decided off the pitch rather than on it.
But with Bielsa’s side currently seven points clear of Fulham in third and with the clock ticking, the former Leeds midfielder is confident that their fans will be celebrating sooner rather than later.
Although not at Elland Road.
“I think the break will have suited them,” said Brown (above) who played for the club between 2011 and 2014.
“I expect a really, really strong start.
“They’re not short on confidence. Yes, they’re going to a tough place in Cardiff and in a strange scenario with no one really sure how anyone is going to adapt. But I think the fatigue that could have set in towards the end of the season won’t be there now.
“When you get that gap you’re going to see a few injuries here and there but hopefully that won’t impact Leeds too much.
“I think the squad is still a little bit light especially at the top end of the pitch.
“Jean-Kevin Augustin got injured as the back-up for Patrick Bamford and that might be a key area.
“But I think they will really produce a lot of energy and I think they will really be ready to go.”
Brown has experienced the passion that Elland Road can generate – although the fans won’t be in the ground for the run-in.
But in a strange way, Brown believes that might actually work in Leeds’ favour.
“It’s not ideal but some teams really raise their game when it’s a full house at Elland Road,” he said.
“I just think they have to continue doing what they’re doing, play with that style and move the ball around as they do.”