Leeds draw blanks

Its been two weeks of disappointment for Simon Grayson's Leeds side. A goalless draw against Ipswich 10 days ago at Elland Road was the first game Leeds had failed to score in since late November. This followed 1 week later to a 2-0 defeat to struggling rivals Sheffield United. The Championships top scorers have now not netted a goal in their last two games. After two consecutive wins against Doncaster and Preston, United only managed to pick up 1 point out of a possible six. These results now leave the Whites 6 points adrift of 2nd placed Norwich.

The alleged actions of Billy Paynter made Saturday even for the Leeds boss as he was shown a straight red card after having a altercation with former Leeds loanee Shane Lowry. Leeds United have decided not to appeal against the decision despite Paynter pleading his innocence. This means he will miss the next 3 matches against Nottingham Forest, Millwall and Derby. Although this is bad news for the club Leeds do have superb squad depth. Ross McCormack has not featured for the first team in a long while now despite putting in impressive shifts in the reserves. This may open a door for the Scotsman. Davide Somma is another player who is trying to break into that starting eleven, this may give the marksman his chance. Luciano Becchio's form has been put under the spotlight recently with his goals starting to dry up. Is the Argentine losing his touch?

Reading and Burnley have one game on hand on Leeds and with both sides only being 4 points adrift the pressure is hotting up with a crucial 8 games to go to try and confirm Premier League status. Leeds face a huge test next Saturday when Notts Forest arrive at Elland Road. Forest are in 6th place 1 point off Leeds. Billy Davies side have been on a bad run of form so this clash will be a pivotal one for both clubs.