### Alan Smith’s Assessment of Leeds United’s Prospects
Alan Smith suggested that Leeds United would gladly accept a finish just above the Premier League relegation zone if offered the chance today. Reflecting on the team’s current trajectory, Smith emphasized the importance of perspective for a newly promoted side facing the challenges of top-flight football.
> “Leeds would snap your hand off for 17th place right now,” Smith remarked, underscoring the need for stability in their first season back.
### Discussion on Daniel Farke’s Role
Smith also hinted that managerial adjustments could be decisive in determining the club’s fate. He noted that Daniel Farke, despite his experience with promotions and relegations in English football, might need to consider tactical and emotional refinements to keep Leeds competitive throughout the season.
> “Farke knows what relegation battles feel like, and that experience will matter,” added Smith, recognising both the demanding nature of the league and the fine margins defining success or failure.
### Broader Context of Leeds’ Situation
The former striker described Leeds’ campaign as one founded more on resilience than flair. With performances sometimes inconsistent, Smith called for collective effort across the squad rather than reliance on individual brilliance. He suggested that securing safety should be viewed as a positive achievement given the strength of rival teams.
### Looking Ahead
Smith concluded that Leeds must stay compact and pragmatic while maintaining belief in Farke’s long-term project. Stability, in his view, would allow the team to build toward more sustainable success in future seasons.
> “This season’s objective is survival. From there, everything else can grow,” Smith stated in closing.
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*Author summary: Alan Smith predicts Leeds United would consider a 17th-place finish a success, urging Daniel Farke and his squad to focus on resilience and stability to avoid relegation.*
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Yorkshire Evening Post on MSN — 2025-11-29