10 January 2025

Leeds United missed an opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Championship table, settling for a frustrating 1-1 draw against Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road.

Despite maintaining a three-point lead over second-placed Burnley, the Whites failed to capitalize, with Max Wobber criticized for wasting a late chance.

The Austrian defender, who was recently reintroduced into the team after a stint on the bench, found himself in the spotlight for a crucial last-gasp mistake.

With the game well balanced, Whopper rose to meet a fine cross from Dan James but misdirected his header over the bar, wasting a great chance to secure the three points for Leeds.

Paul Merson criticizes Max Wobber after making a late mistake

Match analysis on Sky SportsPaul Merson did not hold back in his assessment, pointing out that Whooper should have seized such a crucial opportunity, especially in a match of this size.

Merson said:

“Yes, just one time at the end with Whopper at the far post, James sent it in, went straight past his marker and tried to head it where it came from, (but) he got it too much and headed it over the bar.

“I thought he probably should have done better if I'm being honest.”

The frustration extended to Leeds fans, who watched Danny Batth's 90th-minute equalizer for Blackburn erase their previous lead, leaving Daniel Farke's men with one point to start the new year.

Max Wupper in the Leeds match
Max Wobber in the Leeds match. (Photo by Alex Dodd – CamSport via Getty Images)

Since joining Leeds in January 2023, Whober's time at Elland Road has been marked by ups and downs. After struggling to find a regular place in the team, he spent the 2023–24 season on loan at Borussia Mönchengladbach.

Back at Leeds this season, the defender made just six appearances in all competitions, amassing just 304 minutes of action. While his recent goal against Derby County showed flashes of promise, inconsistency has continued to overshadow his contributions.

It was Linked to January exit However, they were He urged not to make a mistake by letting him leave Mid season.

If the Whites want to secure direct promotion to the Premier League, they will have to seize decisive moments in close matches.

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