The Post War Years

After the cessation of hostilities in World War II, Leeds United entered a challenging period as they sought to rebuild after the disruption caused by the war. The immediate post-war years were marked by financial difficulties and struggles on the field as the club adjusted to the resumption of peacetime football.

Relegation from the First Division

The 1946-1947 season proved to be one of the most disappointing in the club�s history. Leeds United, competing in the First Division, finished 22nd out of 22 teams with only 18 points, setting a record low for the club at the time. Their struggles throughout the season resulted in relegation to Division Two.

After relegation, Leeds United faced further challenges in Division Two. Under the management of Willis Edwards, the team showed only marginal improvement. The 1947-1948 season saw Leeds finish 18th in Division Two. While there was a small step forward in performances compared to the previous season, the club was far from returning to its pre-war form, and the squad remained plagued by inconsistency and financial issues.

Major Frank Buckley's Arrival

In 1948, Major Frank Buckley was appointed as manager, bringing with him a reputation for unconventional methods. Buckley introduced innovative training techniques, including the use of a mechanical kicking machine and experimental treatments like monkey gland extract. He placed significant emphasis on youth development and made several player changes in an effort to rebuild the team. Despite Buckley's enthusiasm and focus on long-term development, Leeds United continued to struggle in Division Two, finishing 15th. Buckley�s efforts laid the groundwork for some future progress, but the club remained mired in mediocrity during this period.

For a comprehensive history of this period see �1947-49 - Post War Depression� on OzWhite's History of Leeds United

Period Summary	Division	Pos (Pts)	FA Cup	Lg Cup	Europe	Other
1945-1946 Details	-	-	R3	-	-	-
1946-1947 Details	Division One	22 (18)	R3	-	-	-
1947-1948 Details	Division Two	18 (36)	R3	-	-	-
1948-1949 Details	Division Two	15 (37)	R3	-	-	-