Saturday 24 September 2016 20:23, UK
Leeds head coach Garry Monk believes his football philosophy is starting to shine through on the pitch after his side continued to make giant strides with a 1-0 home victory over Ipswich.
The former Swansea boss endured a challenging start to life at Elland Road, suffering defeats in four of his first six Sky Bet Championship matches.
But Leeds have improved drastically and a fourth consecutive victory in all competitions was secured against Ipswich courtesy of Chris Wood's seventh goal of the season.
And Monk always felt he needed time to drill his style into his young Leeds squad before they reached their peak.
"It is very pleasing, I thought we did very well," Monk said. "We understood the game very well.
"I am very happy for the group. Everyone knows what they have to do and what is expected.
"Each time the team goes onto the pitch, and you can see it when I look at the start of the season to now, that understanding of what is expected and how we are going to do it is getting better.
"We are taking steps forward for sure. Improvements are there and when you look at that first game, it is pleasing.
"I have a plan that I work to and everyone is clear with that, they understand exactly where they need to get.
"We are not there yet, there is a lot more work to do, but if we can keep growing in confidence, they are going to get stronger and be very competitive. That is the important bit for me. We are getting there."
Wood's form has coincided with Leeds' upturn in results as the in-form striker has netted in all four wins in a row.
"At this moment in time, Chris epitomises what the team are doing, taking that step forward and trying to put our best football on the pitch," Monk added.
Frustrated Ipswich boss Mick McCarthy felt former Tractor Boys loanee Wood was the difference between the two teams.
"Leeds deserved to win," the Yorkshireman said. "They are a good side, they have got good players.
"I thought Chris Wood was outstanding, the focal point and the big difference in the team. When they hit it up there they stuck up there and he ran in the channels.
"He showed why he had good money (spent on him) and why he's a good player. Leeds have a very good player. He played well."
McCarthy, who also confirmed Adam Webster, Brett Pitman and Grant Ward are all doubtful for Tuesday's visit of Brighton, bemoaned his side's attacking qualities.
"Even the free-kick at the end, I know Freddie (Sears) hit the target twice last week, but he's probably too close and we let them off the hook," he added.
