Daniel Farke is searching for Whites who can combine style and class with authentic northern grit.
Farke spoke of acting “with class and style” in both instances, but he was ill-prepared to explain
why Spence was dropped (though he did imply it had to do with attitude) and unwilling to get in
Ayling’s way after all he had done for the Whites.
It’s probably safe to say that Leeds hasn’t always been known for its excessive care with
appearances.
During Don Revie’s tenure, “dirty Leeds” were largely despised by outsiders for their exaggerated
aggressiveness and underappreciated skill. Even after taking over as Revie’s successor, Brian
Clough expressed his dislike for Revie’s values to his new team members.
Leeds simply continued to polish their medals while ignoring their detractors, or in Clough’s case,
promptly dismissing them.
Farke takes the Leeds of the twenty-first century to Cardiff City, a venue where they have played in
a few memorable matches recently and may well play another one on Saturday. Unwilling to break
with tradition as a team that no one looks forward to playing for, Farke is more aware of the
impression he gives to those who might be considering entering the tent.
“Just a few days ago I read a comment from George Best speaking about how every club needs a
dirty player,” he says with a grin. “He mentioned athletes such as Nobby Stiles, stating that during
his time, in the 1960s and early 1970s, every team had a player like him. He concluded that Leeds
United’s starting lineup included 11 players!
“That pleased me as it shows that no one wants to oppose us. On the field, it’s critical to play with
competitiveness and occasionally with pragmatism.
“My belief of football is not that we put the ball in the stand or over the stadium in the rivers, but
that we want to play in ideally a style I feel football should be played in.
“I want my players to take the lead, play boldly and confidently, keep the ball on the ground, and
thrill our fans. However, I also enjoy having steel and a competitive edge occasionally, so I don’t
want to take it away.
It’s not as though we are uncompetitive and just accept our lot in life. When we are competitive, I
enjoy it.
