Leeds’ January window is about more than depth: they need one attacking upgrade to stay out of trouble

Leeds have given themselves a chance. After 18 games and 20 points, Daniel Farke’s side are not cut adrift and do not look out of place in the top flight.

December reinforced that view. Leeds came through Chelsea, Liverpool, Brentford, Crystal Palace and a difficult trip to Sunderland unbeaten, taking nine points from a possible 15 over the festive period. Few pundits saw that return coming, let alone predicted Leeds would collect points across such a demanding stretch.

Encouraging form, though, is not safety.