Leeds United and Newcastle United played out a frustrating goalless draw at Elland Road on Saturday evening. The match highlighted both teams' struggles in front of goal, with just three shots on target recorded throughout the entire 90 minutes.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin made his Premier League debut for Daniel Farke's side after his summer move from Everton. However, the striker failed to provide the attacking spark Leeds desperately needed against a Newcastle side that was far from their best.
Leeds' attacking woes continue
The home side enjoyed decent spells of possession and nullified much of Newcastle's attacking threat. Sean Longstaff was busy against his former club, while Willy Gnonto provided most of the attacking menace out wide.
However, Leeds' lack of cutting edge in the final third was evident throughout. Dan James was substituted on the hour mark after struggling to impact the game, while Lukas Nmecha added physicality up top but no real goal threat.
Strengthening their forward options before the transfer window closes must be a priority for Farke if Leeds are to add the goals and potency they clearly lack.
Newcastle's squad depth concerns
Eddie Howe rotated his side for the trip to Yorkshire, with Anthony Gordon suspended following his red card against Liverpool. The new-look forward line of Jacob Murphy and William Osula struggled to create anything of real quality.
Newcastle have spent over £200 million on transfers this summer but still need greater squad depth for Champions League competition. Their pursuit of players like Yoanne Wissa and Jorgen Strand Larsen remains ongoing.
The Magpies are still searching for their first league win of the campaign after defeats to Liverpool and now this stalemate. Their attacking problems remain evident with Alexander Isak's future still unresolved.
Promoted sides showing resilience
Despite their attacking struggles, Leeds' ability to keep Newcastle at bay offers encouragement for Farke. The Yorkshire side have looked strong in midfield and comfortable defensively in their opening fixtures.
All three newly-promoted sides appear far more prepared for Premier League football than last season's relegated teams. Burnley almost secured a point at Old Trafford after beating Sunderland, while the Black Cats claimed their second victory against Brentford.
The promoted clubs promise to revive a competitive relegation battle that had been largely forgotten in recent years.
Sources used: "GB News", "Yorkshire Post", "Leeds Live" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
