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Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink has told Sky Sports’ The Football Show (Friday, 10:15am) that he is concerned for the future and sustainability of Leeds United, if the Whites are prevented from gaining promotion to the Premier League.
Leeds currently sit at the top of the Championship and with nine league games remaining, Marcelo Bielsa’s side are closing in on a return to the Premier League for the first time in 16 years – following the financial collapse and relegation of 2004.
Bielsa’s men came into the global health crisis in incredible form, winning five consecutive league games and keeping five clean sheets along the way. They sit top, a point ahead of West Brom and seven ahead of third-placed Fulham.
All signs are pointing towards the season starting again, but the threat of a null-and-void season remains a possibility. Hasselbaink commented on his former side, and claimed that if the season is null and void, he is worried for Leeds as a club.
“I’ve followed Leeds very much this season and done a lot of games,” Hasselbaink said. “Especially after last year, if that was to happen, I think it would be a big problem for the sustainability of Leeds.
“Safety is the most important thing, but I do feel that we need to finish all competitions. Teams have worked so hard to put themselves in the positions they are. It would be a big pity for Leeds and their fans if they could not finish the season.
TBR’s view – Hasselbaink is worryingly right
Leeds have spent a fortune on Bielsa and his staff. The Mirror claim owner Andrea Radrizzani is shelling out a whopping £8million a season on the Argentine gaffer, who has worked previously as Argentina and Athletic Bilbao boss.
After coming so close last season, Leeds convinced Bielsa to remain but without promotion this season, Bielsa would be sure to leave. Indeed, Leeds would struggle to afford him. Kalvin Phillips and Ben White would leave.
Leeds would drop down the division. Hasselbaink is right, Leeds need to go up. It is now or not for a long time, for the Whites.
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