‘It’s a joke’… Mark Robins now makes Leeds claim after Coventry inflict first defeat of 2024

Mark Robins has shared his assessment on Coventry City’s 2-1 victory over Leeds United this afternoon.

The Whites were subjected to their first defeat of 2024 at the Coventry Building Society Arena in what was another disappointing display by Daniel Farke’s side.

Since the resumption of the season after the international break, Leeds have failed to hit the same standards of the first three months of the calendar year, which is reflected in their points tally of four points from three matches.

Leeds had actually made a decent start to the game but were undone by some poor defending from a corner, with Coventry dangerman Ellis Simms heading in from close-range.

Haji Wright then doubled the home side’s lead on the counter after the break, and despite Joel Piroe’s first goal since February, Leeds could not find themselves an equaliser.

Robins now makes Leeds claim after Coventry inflict first defeat of 2024
Leeds had far too many players below their best level today against a calibre of opposition they could not afford to be off it against.

Georginio Rutter and Patrick Bamford failed to make the ball stick, Dan James was hugely wasteful, while others also struggled to really show their best.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Robins wanted to praise his side’s performance up against a squad he thinks is a ‘joke’ at this level.

“Against a top team with pace, power and quality and knowhow. We were great. They attack at speed and we defended well where we had to. Slashed at a few things, but mostly good and calm.

“Second half without the ball a lot more as we tied. They make changes with full internationals. Every one of them, to a man, has done really well in new roles I asked them to play. Eccles perfect today, great ball for the second goal.

“Gave us a cushion, but you need that against them. Did not want to drop away, but they made smart changes really. Roberts really attacking threat, Kamara off and Gray into midfield. Gruev back in.

“Gnonto on the bench. Squad is unbelievable, it’s a joke. Milan’s dealt with Summerville as well as anyone this season. Bidwell there the one time Summerville does get in for a chance.”