‘No doubt about it’ – Exclusive: Bruce names the ‘Biggest obstacle to Leeds going up
Alex Bruce believes that playing in an empty Elland Road will be the “biggest obstacle” for Leeds United in their push for promotion this season.
The former Leeds and Northern Ireland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge, insists the supporters have a huge impact on the players and that they will be sorely missed when the season resumes.
The Whites, who currently sit top of the Championship table, have nine games left to play but will see out the season behind closed doors due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Bruce claims that the players will be as fit as possible thanks to Marcelo Bielsa’s demanding nature and suggests that the lack of fans will be the biggest hurdle to overcome.
Bruce told Football Insider: “I think there’s no doubt about it, Bielsa will have worked them hard, got them back up to speed – we all know he’s big on his training methods and what he demands.”
“I think the biggest obstacle for me, for those Leeds players, is playing in an empty stadium.
“The biggest issue will be not having that support behind them at Elland Road, right behind them and who can suck the ball into the back of the net when you need that 12th man.
“For them supporters not to be there will be the biggest obstacle for Leeds to get over the line. It’ll be difficult but I think they’ve got enough.
Leeds kick off the rest of their season with a trip to Cardiff City before welcoming third-placed Fulham to Elland Road a week later.
The Whites have five home games left to play, including the visit of Charlton on the final day of the regular season.
In other Leeds United news, it can be REVEALED the club have set their sights on signing a Spaniard this summer.