Danny Cowley explains how he thinks Huddersfield Town can exploit Leeds United risk-taking

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Leeds United take on local rivals Huddersfield Town this weekend and will be coming up against one of the Football League’s brightest managers in Danny Cowley. 

Indeed, Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa was full of praise for his opposite number during his press conference this week. 

As reported by the Examiner, Cowley has now responded in kind, lavishing praise on the Leeds United boss. 

“It was nice of Marcelo to say that (Huddersfield have improved), and we feel in a much better place.

“We are in a better place but we are respectful of a Leeds team who are the best in this division in my opinion.

“We have respect for Marcelo Bielsa and the way he sets his teams up. You can always tell an outstanding coach by the quality of the product, and it’s an outstanding product.”

But when it came to the actual game, Cowley was more concerned about figuring out how to break down Leeds defence. 

Whilst he admits that it won’t be easy, he sees potential openings afforded to his team by the way Leeds United play.

“You have to punch back, because if you don’t they will get more and more offensive and create more and more chances – and you will get further and further away from their goal and carry less and less theat.

“We have to get the dose right, both offensively and defensively, that’s very, very important.

“I do think Leeds take risks with the way they play – a lot of risks. While that can cause you a problem, it can be a way we can affect things.”

TBR’s View

There is no doubt that Leeds defensive stats make ominous reading for any opponent. The Whites have kept four clean sheets in a row and have conceded just 30 goals in 36 Championship games this season, the best record in the league. 

However, Cowley clearly feels that if Huddersfield can beat the imposing Leeds United pressing game and put enough pressure on the defensive line when trying to play from the back, that the Terriers can have some good fortune. 

But that is a lot easier in practice than in action.