Wow. This is awkward to admit after the doom-laden report I wrote just two weeks ago – but what a time to be a Leeds fan. You go from staring into the relegation abyss to taking four points in three days against two of the so called ‘big six’. I still cannot quite believe it. Football is a funny old game but Leeds United take it to extremes.
Two weeks ago, I was struggling to name a single player who looked Premier League-ready. Now? I’m struggling to find anyone who put a foot wrong. A complete shift in attitude, belief and performance – and it has injected fresh life into the fanbase too.
Let’s start with Gabriel Gudmundsson and what a signing he has turned out to be. Calm, composed and unbelievably consistent. He has added the balance we needed.
Then there is Ao Tanaka – what a game-changer. A stunning goal, relentless energy and that knack of arriving exactly where defenders least want him. My only complaint? Start him! He’s earned it.
Nothing captures the spirit of this team more than that wild and breathless classic against Liverpool. Conceding early, battling back, conceding again before refusing to lie down. That’s Leeds.
When Tanaka, deep into stoppage time, smashed home from a corner, Elland Road erupted. It felt like the roof would come off.
That is why we love football and why following Leeds is both a blessing and a curse. Never predictable, but when it is good, it is absolutely electric.
The home atmosphere has been tough lately. You could feel nervousness creeping in but not in the past two matches. The old Elland Road roar is back, and you can tell the players feel it. Best stand in the country – not that I’m biased.
On a personal note, I run a dog-walking business, and one of my lovely clients, Lucy, is a massive Leeds fan. Her other half Neil supports ‘the better red’ if there is one. I’m looking forward to seeing them this week, especially since I’ve got a Tanaka shirt on order for you, Neil. Some gifts just cannot wait.
However, as much as this week has lifted us, part of me still is not fully convinced about Farke. It is harsh, especially after the performances we’ve just seen, but the games come quickly during this period and we all know there are twists ahead. This run takes pressure off, but the jury is not settled yet.
Still, what a difference confidence makes. I was genuinely dreading the trip to Brentford but now I am excited.
Bring it on – and bring on the festive chaos.
Molly Whitmore is a regular contributor on BBC Radio Leeds – find all their audio here