Jonathan Rowe makes ‘crazy’ Leeds and Manchester United comparison ahead of play-off second leg

The 21-year-old was one of a number of top attacking players on the pitch who struggled to get into the game, with just three shots on target between either team.

But it is the second leg of play-off ties that often bring the drama and the onus will certainly be on Leeds, as the home side, to come out and attack with much more adventure.

For Leeds to progress, though, they will have to do something they haven’t done since 1987, and that is winning a home play-off tie.

Rowe makes Leeds, Manchester United, Liverpool comparison

Despite being just 21, this will now be the third time Rowe has played at Elland Road during his career, having first done so from the bench back in March 2022.

That game is one that will live long in the memory for Leeds supporters as Joe Gelhardt netted a dramatic 94th minute winner, just moments after Kenny McLean had equalized for the visitors.

Such a late goal brought meant Elland Road was at its absolute best that day, with it turning out to be a crucial three points in Leeds’ fight for survival.

Speaking to Pink Ahead of Thursday’s game, Rowe believes Leeds’ atmosphere is among the very best in the country and is comparable to only Anfield and Old Trafford, of the stadiums he’s played in.

He said: “Those three (Anfield, Elland Road and Old Trafford) are probably the main ones that stood out to me. Anfield is Anfield, it was a fortress and has been for the last few years. That club has a lot of weight, and Old Trafford was just huge.

“Elland Road had the most noise that I can remember. That I was a crazy game. Even though we lost I was just in awe of the atmosphere.”

Leeds need Elland Road at its best on Thursday

Having earned a draw at Carrow Road, many people now see Leeds as favorites for the return leg due to the advantage of playing at home.

Elland Road had been an absolute fortress for Leeds this season up until the last two matches, as they went unbeaten in their first 21 on home soil this season.

Leeds will need the home support at their very best on Thursday in a similar way to how it was when the Whites defeated Leicester City 3-1 in February.

After Connor Roberts’ equalizing goal, that game was only going one way and a similar atmosphere could be too much for Norwich.

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