‘They have to be careful with the goal difference’: Roy Keane warns ‘absolutely shocking’ Leeds that goals conceded in 5-1 defeat against Crystal Palace could prove costly in relegation battle
Roy Keane has warned Leeds that the goals they conceded in their 5-1 defeat against Crystal Palace could prove costly.
Leeds went ahead through Patrick Bamford at Elland Road but ended up capitulating, with Jordan Ayew scoring a brace for Palace, while Marc Guehi, Eberechi Eze and Odsonne Edouard were also on target.
The result boosted Palace’s hopes of avoiding relegation, but Leeds are in 16th place and are just two points above the relegation zone.
Gracia’s side have a goal difference of -15, and Keane suggested that Leeds have to be careful with the amount of goals they let in.
The likes of Bournemouth, Everton and Nottingham Forest have worse goal differences than Leeds. However, West Ham and Leicester have better goal differences.
Roy Keane says the goals Leeds conceded in their 5-1 loss to Crystal Palace could be costly
Keane described Leeds’ performance as ‘absolutely shocking’ as they lost to Palace
Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane said: ‘They have to be careful with the goal difference. The team can go down on goal difference it’s that tight. So to give up so many goals and chances at the end is really poor. Poor discipline.’
Since being appointed as Leeds manager, Javi Gracia has overseen three victories, one draw and three defeats in league matches.
Leeds have eight games remaining as they look to preserve their Premier League status, with those fixtures including clashes with Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle and Tottenham.
They also have to take on fellow strugglers Bournemouth, Leicester and West Ham, with Fulham their other opponents.
Leeds’ defending against Palace will be a concern for Gracia, and his side can ill afford to be as slack at the back in their upcoming games.
Gracia’s side are in 16th place in the Premier League and have a goal difference of -15
Keane was heavily critical of Leeds, describing their performance against Palace as ‘absolutely shocking’. He accused them of giving Palace ‘far too much space and time’.
He said: ‘Leeds were absolutely shocking. Really poor too open but Palace were outstanding. Olise was the best player on the pitch by far. Three assists. First goal great cross comes in really poor defending. Palace go into half-time it changes the energy of the game and around the stadium. They have been given far too much space and time.
‘This is brilliant (third goal) brilliant running off the ball. Lovely pace of pass brilliant.’