Daniel Farke’s Leeds United avoided relegation with a late survival finish, leaving the club just above the drop zone and close to European spots. The side’s climb from a bottom‑three threat to a seventh‑place finish in December showcases the impact of the tactical overhaul.

The change, introduced mid‑match against Manchester City, saw a shift from a back four to a back three. The switch sparked a seven‑game unbeaten run, added solidity through Jaka Bijol and widened the attack with wing‑backs. Dominik Calvert‑Lewin exploded from one goal in ten games to 12 in 23, a lift that underlines the system’s potency.

Meanwhile, Brighton’s 21‑year‑old Jack Hinshelwood has re‑emerged as No 10, scoring a thunderous header in a 3‑0 win over Wolves. His relentless runs into the box, now ranked behind only a handful of Premier League forwards, create space and force defenders to adjust, proving invaluable to a side chasing its best European finish.

On the other side of the table, Kieran Trippier faces a farewell home game against West Ham. With key defenders out, Newcastle’s manager opted for a different lineup, leaving Trippier to decide his legacy in a season that has seen him swap a top‑flight club for a relegation battle.