The 1924-25 season was a defining one for Leeds United, as the club embarked on its first campaign in the top flight of English football since its reformation. Having clinched promotion from the Second Division the previous season, Leeds United, under the stewardship of Arthur Fairclough, faced the challenge of establishing themselves in Division One.
Offseason Changes
The summer of 1924 brought significant changes to Elland Road. The resignation of assistant manager Dick Ray could have been a destabilizing factor, but Fairclough acted swiftly. He appointed Dick Norman, the former Blackpool manager, as Ray’s replacement. Fairclough and Norman had a history of working well together, having collaborated during Fairclough’s tenure at Barnsley before the First World War. This familiarity was expected to provide a seamless transition and continued strategic insight for the team.
In addition to managerial changes, the club saw a notable turnover of players. The departure of half-backs Alf Dark and Jimmy Walton, forwards Len Armitage and George Mason, and full-back Joe Potts, along with the retirement of former Leeds City winger Ivan Sharpe, signaled a fresh approach to the squad. These departures were part of a strategic reshuffle aimed at building a more competitive team for their new top-flight status.
The Season’s Journey
Leeds United’s debut season in Division One was a testament to their resilience and adaptability. While they faced tough competition from more established clubs, their performance was both commendable and indicative of their potential.
- Early Form: The season began with a mix of results, reflecting the challenges of acclimating to the top division. Leeds managed to secure a few crucial victories, which were vital for their confidence and position in the league.
- Mid-Season Challenges: As the season progressed, Leeds encountered periods of struggle, which tested their resolve. Matches against higher-caliber opponents were particularly challenging, but Fairclough’s tactical adjustments and the team’s growing cohesion helped them navigate these hurdles.
- Survival and Success: The true highlight of Leeds United’s 1924-25 season was their survival in Division One. Despite the high level of competition and the pressures of maintaining their status, Leeds secured their place in the league for another season. This achievement was a significant accomplishment for a team newly promoted and under the weight of expectation.
Key Performances and Players
Several players stood out during the season. Their contributions were crucial in ensuring Leeds United’s survival:
- Goalkeeper and Defense: The defensive unit, including key players who had adapted from the Second Division, played a critical role in securing vital points. Their ability to withstand pressure and perform in crucial moments was instrumental.
- Midfield and Attack: Despite the departures of notable forwards, the attacking players adapted well, with new signings and existing squad members stepping up to provide the necessary goals and assists.
Jack Swann: Leeds United’s Top Scorer
During the 1924-25 season, Leeds United faced the formidable challenge of establishing themselves in Division One. Amidst the team’s struggles and the competitive nature of the league, one standout performer was Jack Swann. Despite the team’s overall difficulty in securing victories, Swann’s individual contribution was a bright spot. He emerged as Leeds United’s top scorer for the season, netting 11 goals. Swann’s efforts were crucial in helping the team secure a place in the top tier for another season. His goal-scoring prowess highlighted his importance to the squad and provided much-needed hope and stability during a challenging campaign.
Conclusion
The 1924-25 season was a landmark year for Leeds United. The club’s successful navigation of their first season back in Division One demonstrated their ability to compete at a higher level. Manager Arthur Fairclough, along with his newly appointed assistant Dick Norman, played a pivotal role in guiding the team through this transitional period. The season’s success lay in the club’s resilience and adaptability, ensuring their continued presence in the top tier of English football and setting the stage for future growth.
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GR | Pts | Qualification or Relegation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Huddersfield Town | 42 | 21 | 16 | 5 | 69 | 28 | 2.464 | 58 | |
| 2 | West Bromwich Albion | 42 | 23 | 10 | 9 | 58 | 34 | 1.706 | 56 | |
| 3 | Bolton Wanderers | 42 | 22 | 11 | 9 | 76 | 34 | 2.235 | 55 | |
| 4 | Liverpool | 42 | 20 | 10 | 12 | 63 | 55 | 1.145 | 50 | |
| 5 | Bury | 42 | 17 | 15 | 10 | 54 | 51 | 1.059 | 49 | |
| 6 | Newcastle United | 42 | 16 | 16 | 10 | 61 | 42 | 1.452 | 48 | |
| 7 | Sunderland | 42 | 19 | 10 | 13 | 64 | 51 | 1.255 | 48 | |
| 8 | Birmingham | 42 | 17 | 12 | 13 | 49 | 53 | 0.925 | 46 | |
| 9 | Notts County | 42 | 16 | 13 | 13 | 42 | 31 | 1.355 | 45 | |
| 10 | Manchester City | 42 | 17 | 9 | 16 | 76 | 68 | 1.118 | 43 | |
| 11 | Cardiff City | 42 | 16 | 11 | 15 | 56 | 51 | 1.098 | 43 | |
| 12 | Tottenham Hotspur | 42 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 52 | 43 | 1.209 | 42 | |
| 13 | West Ham United | 42 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 62 | 60 | 1.033 | 42 | |
| 14 | Sheffield United | 42 | 13 | 13 | 16 | 55 | 63 | 0.873 | 39 | |
| 15 | Aston Villa | 42 | 13 | 13 | 16 | 58 | 71 | 0.817 | 39 | |
| 16 | Blackburn Rovers | 42 | 11 | 13 | 18 | 53 | 66 | 0.803 | 35 | |
| 17 | Everton | 42 | 12 | 11 | 19 | 40 | 60 | 0.667 | 35 | |
| 18 | Leeds United | 42 | 11 | 12 | 19 | 46 | 59 | 0.780 | 34 | |
| 19 | Burnley | 42 | 11 | 12 | 19 | 46 | 75 | 0.613 | 34 | |
| 20 | Arsenal | 42 | 14 | 5 | 23 | 46 | 58 | 0.793 | 33 | |
| 21 | Preston North End | 42 | 10 | 6 | 26 | 37 | 74 | 0.500 | 26 | Relegated to the Second Division |
| 22 | Nottingham Forest | 42 | 6 | 12 | 24 | 29 | 65 | 0.446 | 24 | Relegated to the Second Division |
Leeds United Fixtures 1924-25
| Week | Date | Against | Score | Scorers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division1 1/42 | 30-08-1924 | Sunderland (h) | 1-1 (D) | Swan |
| Division1 2/42 | 01-09-1924 | Notts County (a) | 0-1 (L) | |
| Division1 3/42 | 06-09-1924 | Cardiff City (a) | 0-3 (L) | |
| Division1 4/42 | 10-09-1924 | Notts County (h) | 1-1 (D) | Swan |
| Division1 5/42 | 13-09-1924 | Preston North End (h) | 4-0 (W) | Swan 2, Thom Harris |
| Division1 6/42 | 17-09-1924 | Everton (h) | 1-0 (W) | Thom |
| Division1 7/42 | 20-09-1924 | Burnley (a) | 1-1 (D) | Thom |
| Division1 8/42 | 27-09-1924 | Huddersfield Town (h) | 1-1 (D) | Swan |
| Division1 9/42 | 04-10-1924 | Birmingham (h) | 0-1 (L) | |
| Division1 10/42 | 11-10-1924 | West Bromwich Albion (a) | 1-3 (L) | Robson |
| Division1 11/42 | 18-10-1924 | Tottenham Hotspur (h) | 1-0 (W) | Whipp |
| Division1 12/42 | 25-10-1924 | Blackburn Rovers (a) | 3-2 (W) | Robson 2, Swan |
| Division1 13/42 | 01-11-1924 | West Ham United (h) | 2-1 (W) | Richmond (pen), Swan |
| Division1 14/42 | 08-11-1924 | Sheffield United (a) | 1-1 (D) | Swan |
| Division1 15/42 | 15-11-1924 | Newcastle United (h) | 1-1 (D) | Whipp |
| Division1 16/42 | 22-11-1924 | Liverpool (a) | 0-1 (L) | |
| Division1 17/42 | 29-11-1924 | Nottingham Forest (h) | 1-1 (D) | Robson |
| Division1 18/42 | 06-12-1924 | Bury (a) | 0-1 (L) | |
| Division1 19/42 | 13-12-1924 | Manchester City (h) | 0-3 (L) | |
| Division1 20/42 | 20-12-1924 | Arsenal (a) | 1-6 (L) | Whipp |
| Division1 21/42 | 25-12-1924 | Aston Villa (h) | 6-0 (W) | Whipp 3, Swan 2, Hart |
| Division1 22/42 | 26-12-1924 | Aston Villa (a) | 1-2 (L) | Swan |
| Division1 23/42 | 27-12-1924 | Sunderland (a) | 1-2 (L) | Richmond |
| Division1 24/42 | 03-01-1925 | Cardiff City (h) | 0-0 (D) | |
| FACR1 1/1 | 10-01-1925 | Liverpool (a) | 0-1 (L) | |
| Division1 25/42 | 17-01-1925 | Preston North End (a) | 4-1 (W) | Whipp 2, Powell 2 |
| Division1 26/42 | 24-01-1925 | Burnley (h) | 0-2 (L) | |
| Division1 27/42 | 31-01-1925 | Huddersfield Town (a) | 0-2 (L) | |
| Division1 28/42 | 07-02-1925 | Birmingham (a) | 0-0 (D) | |
| Division1 29/42 | 14-02-1925 | West Bromwich Albion (h) | 0-1 (L) | |
| Division1 30/42 | 28-02-1925 | Blackburn Rovers (h) | 1-1 (D) | Noble |
| Division1 31/42 | 07-03-1925 | West Ham United (a) | 0-0 (D) | |
| Division1 32/42 | 09-03-1925 | Tottenham Hotspur (a) | 1-2 (L) | Armand |
| Division1 33/42 | 14-03-1925 | Sheffield United (h) | 1-1 (D) | Harris |
| Division1 34/42 | 21-03-1925 | Newcastle United (a) | 1-4 (L) | Wainscoat |
| Division1 35/42 | 28-03-1925 | Liverpool (h) | 4-1 (W) | Wainscoat, Armand, Harris, Jennings |
| Division1 36/42 | 04-04-1925 | Nottingham Forest (a) | 0-4 (L) | |
| Division1 37/42 | 10-04-1925 | Bolton Wanderers (a) | 0-1 (L) | |
| Division1 38/42 | 11-04-1925 | Bury (h) | 1-0 (W) | Jennings |
| Division1 39/42 | 14-04-1925 | Bolton Wanderers (h) | 2-1 (W) | Wainscoat, Jennings |
| Division1 40/42 | 18-04-1925 | Manchester City (a) | 2-4 (L) | Wainscoat, Whipp |
| Division1 41/42 | 25-04-1925 | Arsenal (h) | 1-0 (W) | Whipp |
| Division1 42/42 | 02-05-1925 | Everton (a) | 0-1 (L) |
