The 1921-22 season marked a significant turning point for Leeds United, showcasing a marked improvement over the previous year’s performance. Under the guidance of new manager Arthur Fairclough, the team demonstrated a notable resurgence in the Second Division, ending the campaign in a commendable 14th place. This season was not only a testament to Fairclough’s strategic acumen but also a reflection of the promising new talent he brought into the squad.
A Fresh Start with Arthur Fairclough
Arthur Fairclough, stepping into the managerial role, inherited a squad that had struggled the previous season. His first year at the helm was pivotal, laying the foundation for future success. Fairclough’s approach focused on solidifying the defense while gradually integrating new players to enhance the team’s overall performance.
Key Signings and Tactical Adjustments
Fairclough’s recruitment strategy was instrumental in shaping the squad. The club welcomed several new faces:
- Fred Whalley (Goalkeeper) from Grimsby, bolstering the goalkeeping department.
- Ralph Rodgerson (Full Back) from Huddersfield, adding depth to the defense.
- Harry Sherwin (Right-Half) from Sunderland, who had a notable past with Leeds City.
- Wallace Clark (Right Winger) from Middlesbrough, aiming to provide more width and attacking options.
- Jim Moore (Inside Forward) from Southampton, adding creativity and goal-scoring potential.
Among these new recruits, Jack Swan emerged as the most impactful signing. Arriving from Huddersfield in November, Swan filled the void left by Clem Stephenson, who had secured his place with the England national team. Swan’s contribution was nothing short of spectacular; he went on to score 47 goals in 108 League appearances over his four-year stint at Elland Road. His presence proved to be a formidable challenge for opposition defenses, significantly elevating Leeds United’s attacking prowess.
The Season’s Achievements and Future Outlook
The 1921-22 season saw Leeds United steadily improving, with a solid defensive formation providing a platform for growth. Fairclough’s ability to blend new talent with existing squad members set the stage for the club’s future endeavors. The team’s performance was marked by resilience and an evolving tactical approach that suggested better days ahead.
Leeds United’s rise in the league standings this season was a clear indication of progress. The groundwork laid by Fairclough and his successful integration of new players were crucial in transforming the team’s fortunes. As the season concluded, there was a renewed sense of optimism surrounding Elland Road, with supporters eagerly anticipating what the future held for their team.
With a promising lineup and a manager who had already demonstrated his capability, Leeds United was well-positioned to build on this successful season. The 1921-22 campaign not only marked an improvement from the previous year but also set the stage for a new era of growth and achievement for the club.
League Standings Table 1921-22 – Division 2
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GR | Pts | Qualification or Relegation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nottingham Forest | 42 | 22 | 12 | 8 | 51 | 30 | 1.700 | 56 | Promoted to the First Division |
| 2 | Stoke | 42 | 18 | 16 | 8 | 60 | 44 | 1.364 | 52 | |
| 3 | Barnsley | 42 | 22 | 8 | 12 | 67 | 52 | 1.288 | 52 | |
| 4 | West Ham United | 42 | 20 | 8 | 14 | 52 | 39 | 1.333 | 48 | |
| 5 | Hull City | 42 | 19 | 10 | 13 | 51 | 41 | 1.244 | 48 | |
| 6 | South Shields | 42 | 17 | 12 | 13 | 43 | 38 | 1.132 | 46 | |
| 7 | Fulham | 42 | 18 | 9 | 15 | 57 | 38 | 1.500 | 45 | |
| 8 | Leeds United | 42 | 16 | 13 | 13 | 48 | 38 | 1.263 | 45 | |
| 9 | Leicester City | 42 | 14 | 17 | 11 | 39 | 34 | 1.147 | 45 | |
| 10 | The Wednesday | 42 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 47 | 50 | 0.940 | 44 | |
| 11 | Bury | 42 | 15 | 10 | 17 | 54 | 55 | 0.982 | 40 | |
| 12 | Derby County | 42 | 15 | 9 | 18 | 60 | 64 | 0.938 | 39 | |
| 13 | Notts County | 42 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 47 | 51 | 0.922 | 39 | |
| 14 | Crystal Palace | 42 | 13 | 13 | 16 | 45 | 51 | 0.882 | 39 | |
| 15 | Clapton Orient | 42 | 15 | 9 | 18 | 43 | 50 | 0.860 | 39 | |
| 16 | Rotherham County | 42 | 14 | 11 | 17 | 32 | 43 | 0.744 | 39 | |
| 17 | Wolverhampton Wanderers | 42 | 13 | 11 | 18 | 44 | 49 | 0.898 | 37 | |
| 18 | Port Vale | 42 | 14 | 8 | 20 | 43 | 57 | 0.754 | 36 | |
| 19 | Blackpool | 42 | 15 | 5 | 22 | 44 | 57 | 0.772 | 35 | |
| 20 | Coventry City | 42 | 12 | 10 | 20 | 51 | 60 | 0.850 | 34 | |
| 21 | Bradford Park Avenue | 42 | 12 | 9 | 21 | 46 | 62 | 0.742 | 33 | Relegated to the Third Division North |
| 22 | Bristol City | 42 | 12 | 9 | 21 | 37 | 58 | 0.638 | 33 | Relegated to the Third Division South |
