Crystal Palace head to Elland Road on Sunday seeking a response after a late defeat by Ipswich left them with three losses from their opening four league matches under Pierre Sage.
The defensive issues that have troubled the Eagles since the latter stages of Oliver Glasner’s tenure remain a major concern. Palace have conceded at least twice in each of their past 10 top-flight fixtures, a run bettered only by Fulham’s record of 13 consecutive Premier League matches between January and April 2019.
Their numbers underline the scale of the problem. Palace have conceded 11 goals, faced an expected-goals figure of 8.15 and allowed 26 shots on target, level with the highest total in the league. Opponents have also registered 164 touches inside the Eagles’ penalty area, more than any other side.
The situation has been compounded by the departures of Marc Guehi, Maxence Lacroix and Daniel Munoz across the January and summer transfer windows. Goalkeeper and captain Dean Henderson is also absent for the trip to Leeds, while highly rated defender Jaydee Canvot was left out against Ipswich after Sage said he needed more from the player.
Palace did receive a timely boost in midweek. The Eagles began their Europa League campaign with a 4-0 victory over Lech Poznan on Thursday, offering morale before they face a Leeds side unbeaten in 12 of their past 13 league matches and unbeaten at home since 3 March.
Daniel Farke’s team are also coming off a 4-1 win over Newcastle, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin scoring twice and providing an assist. Palace will therefore need a much-improved defensive display if they are to prevent Leeds from extending their strong start at Elland Road.
