Good Morning. It's Tuesday 13th September, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Lack of policing forces War of the Roses postponement
Despite the 200 mile distance between London and Old Trafford, the Premier League and Greater Manchester Police have decided to postpone the War of the Roses clash this weekend. Unlike the Nottingham Forest game, which was put on hold as a sign of respect to Queen Elizabeth II, Sunday's deferment relates to a lack of policing, as the nation prepares for the funeral of our beloved Monarch.
There is no love lost between Leeds and the red side of Manchester, and whatever the scoreline, tension will be high, and tempers will fray. Normally for a game of this magnitude, the Police would draft in hundreds of extra bobbies from neighbouring forces to ensure law and order, but most have already been secunded for Westminster duties.
Her Majesty's funeral is likely to be one of the largest events the World has ever seen, with hundreds of World leaders, and dignitaries expected in London to pay their final respects. The terror threat must be monumental, especially when you consider the funeral comes just days later after the 21st anniversary of 9/11.
Parisi snub could be blessing in disguise
Various media outlets have reported that Leeds came close to signing Empoli left-back Fabiano Parisi this Summer, only for the 21yo to change his mind. The little known Italian has impressed since breaking into their starting line up this term. In 502 minutes of game time, he has gained a whoScored rating of 7.24; higher than any of his teammates.
Could it have been a blessing in disguise? Pascal Struijk's performances at left back have been solid, and have led to his national call up for the Netherlands, where he could make his debut against Belgium later this month.
Will Semi-automatic offside technology help Leeds
Semi-automatic offside technology is set to be introduced to the Premier League next season, according to an article in 'The Times'. It will not only reduce the time it takes for offside decisions to be made, but will also eliminate human error. Having seen it work well in the Champions League, the Premier League have decided to try it out.
An interesting article from ESPN insists that VAR was actually very kind to Leeds last season, and had it not been for Video Assistant Referee, Leeds would have been relegated!
Leeds United celebrated survival on the final day with victory at Brentford, but they might have VAR to thank for retaining their Premier League status -- because the VAR Effect Table shows them relegated.
A couple of factors come into play here as Leeds lose two points without VAR. First there's the home draw with Leicester which goes down as a loss, then the an injury-time penalty given to Leeds against Crystal Palace when the score was goalless; two of the key calls which went the way of the Yorkshire side.
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