Leeds United must bring in another centre-back or risk promotion woe

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Leeds United’s unbeaten start to the new season came to an end last night, as they exited the League Cup. The Whites fell to a 2-0 home loss to Championship rivals Preston North End at Elland Road. It was a poor first-half performance from a Leeds side fielding several different players from their weekend win at Norwich City that cost them.

One of the players brought into the starting XI was 22-year-old Conor Shaughnessy. The Irishman, who has only just recovered from injury, did not have a game to remember. He struggled against the Preston attack and was hauled off at half-time.

So if Leeds have learned a lesson from this game, it is that another centre-back recruit is needed at Elland Road before the close of the loan window.

Pontus Jansson and Liam Cooper are the club’s only recognised central defenders. Full-back by-trade Gaetano Berardi has done a good job in the centre whilst Luke Ayling can also fill in. Midfielder Kalvin Phillips has also been adapted into the role by Marcelo Bielsa.

But over a 46-game season, and especially with the recent injury and disciplinary record of Jansson, Cooper, Ayling and Berardi it is imperative Leeds bring in another central defensive option before the end of the month.

Because if they are caught relying on Shaughnessy, it is hard to see them winning promotion to the Premier League.