Charlton take on those clean playing chaps from the North of England tomorrow..
Famous for mortgaging their players in attempts to achieve European glory, Leeds have seen better times, and are perhaps still seen in the top handful of clubs from the North, well Yorkshire at least, although 'rivals' Hull have fared far better in recent years.
Having acquired the the club last season Leeds' new owners and Chairman David Haigh of Bahrain-based investment bank GFH Capital are determined to avoid the mistakes of the past gambling the clubs future on success, referenced by a slightly odd obsession with a rented fish tank - although nowadays this kind of recklessness seems a fairly common activity that a spell in administration and a new owner seems to remedy quite easily for some. Leeds immediately reduced some season ticket prices saying they wanted a full Elland Road, although the airline style pricing structure has proved controversial.
Leeds also boast a very active supporters trust, who fell slightly foul of previous owner Ken Bates who they were rather critical of.
Form guides put both clubs in Saturday's match at roughly the same position. Leeds away form is pretty dire losing the last 4 out of 6 and winning the two others, whereas Charlton at home have drawn the last 3, lost 1, won 1. Perhaps the most important consideration and a reflection of the different styles here is that Charlton haven't conceded in four matches, scoring 2, whereas Leeds have scored 9 but conceded 6.
As for the table that 'really matters ' Leeds are in 8th on 20 points and Charlton are 17th on 14 with a game in hand. The Addicks are 3 points of 3rd from bottom and 9 off 6th. Leeds are 3 off sixth and 9 clear of the relegation spots.
Having had a good clear out this summer and spent around £3m, Brian McDermott has set Leeds up as a free scoring side, but who can also concede a few, and that should give Chris Powell some food for thought.
Meanwhile Charlton should have Johnny Jackson starting, with Kermogant possibly on the bench. Fans will no doubt be very relieved to hear that Chris Powell missed out on Manager of the month, usually a kiss of death for a good run of form (clean sheets in this case). We suspect that goals will be key today (sorry) and that Powell must find at least a couple of goals from his team or come away with nothing from tomorrows clash.
TN
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