Roy Keane’s Shocking Praise? Leeds Fans Rally Behind Farke’s December Tactical Shift

Roy Keane’s Shocking Praise? Leeds Fans Rally Behind Farke’s December Tactical Shift

In a surprising turn during Sky Sports punditry in mid-December 2025, Manchester United legend Roy Keane delivered what many deemed a “shocking” claim about Leeds United manager Daniel Farke: finally adapting his tactics was key to turning the club’s Premier League season around.

Leeds had endured a dismal November, slipping into the relegation zone after six defeats in seven games. Pundits, including Keane himself earlier, had branded the Whites “dreadful” and tipped them for relegation, criticizing Farke’s stubborn possession-based style as ill-suited to top-flight survival.

But December brought change. Facing must-win home games against Chelsea and Liverpool, Farke ditched his rigid 4-2-3-1 for a flexible 5-3-2/3-4-3 setup. The tweak paid dividends immediately—a stunning 3-1 upset over Chelsea, Leeds’ best performance of the season, dominating expected goals despite low possession.

Keane, known for his brutal honesty, shocked viewers by admitting: “Farke’s finally listened. That tactical change—going more direct, solid at the back—it’s what they’ve needed all along. Credit where due; it’s bought him time and points.”

By late December, further adjustments, like deploying defender Joe Rodon in overlapping wide roles and varying between back four and five, helped Leeds string wins, including a thrashing of Crystal Palace. Dominic Calvert-Lewin thrived up top, netting braces.

Leeds fans, initially divided and calling for Farke’s head amid sack speculation, overwhelmingly agreed with Keane. Social media buzzed with support: “Keane’s spot on—Farke’s evolution has saved us!” Polls showed renewed faith, with many hailing the German’s adaptability as proof he can keep Leeds up.

As 2025 closes, Farke’s December pivot—not stubbornness—has silenced doubters and reignited survival hopes at Elland Road.