Leeds United boss wants fans backing in Yorkshire derby

After winning their opening league game and first round Capital One Cup tie the Whites earned a good point in their first away of the new season at Leicester last Sunday, but are quickly back at home with Sheffield Wednesday making the short journey up the M1 for a game kicking off at 12.15pm.

While not quite clicking yet Brian McDermott’s men have had a more solid look about them so far this season and will be looking to maintain the progress as well as strike the first bragging rights against the Owls.

In contrast to United’s strong start, Wednesday are already under a little pressure after narrow defeats in all their first three matches. They are in need of victory to get their campaign going and are sure to be fired up by manager Dave Jones, whose dislike of the Leeds fans is already on record.

A big crowd is expected, although it will be difficult to top the opening day attendance against Brighton with this match live on TV.

Fans will be hoping for more excitement than in last Sunday’s televised outing at Leicester when for all their good teamwork and defensive and midfield stability Leeds failed to managed a single effort on target in the goalless draw.

Manager McDermott is pleased, however, with the way his side has begun the season.

He said: “We’ve got four points and it’s nice to get off to a start. We have had a couple of good results.

“Leicester had the one chance against the post but other than that, they threw a lot of balls into the box and we dealt with it very well.

“There was not much in the game. We nullified each other and it was very tight.

“But it’s not an easy place to come and get a result from. I look how each game is unfolding and we could have nicked that but we will take a clean sheet.”

McDermott wants the fans to stay behind the team and is hoping for another big attendance this Saturday.

He said: “We’re all looking forward to Saturday afternoon and to be back at Elland Road.

“We really hope that everyone that came to the Brighton match will be there again for the visit of Sheffield Wednesday.

“The fans were all fantastic and the support really made the difference.

“It will keep the players going and they are all proud to wear the Leeds United shirt, which is important.”