An interview with a rival

Head of Content Keith Ingham spoke to Huddersfield fan Chris Maguire about today's clash live at Elland Road.

Your thoughts on the last time we met?

The last time we met we were in-between managers with David Wagner sat in the stands waiting to start the following Monday. I was hopeful that we might put a performance in for the new manager, however it was one of those afternoons. Leeds were lucky to still have Wootton on the pitch and predictably he went on to score a goal. Both clubs are in a completely different position now so it will be interesting to see what happens on Saturday.

What's your opinion on David Wagner?
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David Wagner has completely changed the philosophy and direction of the club and is a breath of fresh air. We have gone from playing a boring negative style of football to an exciting and expansive game and he has certainly put his stamp on the club. There is an excitement around the club whereby we are constantly looking forward to the next game. This feeling has been missing from our club for years.

What do you think of Town's current form?

If we could score goals we would be well within the top half of the table and probably pushing for the play-off's. Game after game we are dominating the stats in terms of possession and shots however we are not clinical enough and that is why we are where we are in the table. I have walked away from numerous games this season and cannot believe how we have drawn or lost the game with the chances we have had however it’s putting it in the net that matters and the stats mean nothing. 

How will the team line up?

I would expect to see Van la Parra make an appearance and I would like to think that he will easily fit into our style of play. I cannot predict the team as David Wagner likes to rotate to squad and you can rarely predict the team that he actually puts out.

What you think of the new pricing policy for Town?

The pricing policy is great and it is something I hope that other clubs will look to introduce however I don’t think it will happen. I know Dean Hoyle has re-invested some of the extra TV money back into the fans and playing squad which has helped to reduce season ticket prices. The tickets went on sale yesterday and I can see that there are lots of fans coming back to the club who haven’t been to a game for years. It’s a big gamble but I hope for Dean Hoyle’s sake that it pays of as all clubs should have a Chairman like him.

Hoyle or Cellino?

Hoyle any day…as per my comments last time I would not want Cellino anywhere near my club!!!

Greatest game v Leeds?

For me the 2-1 win for Town in 2008 was a cracker with a 90th minute winner from Michael Collins. However, there have been a number of good clashes between Leeds and Town over the years, not so many recently. (Maybe not for you!)

Player at Leeds you've admired, if any?

I keep an eye out for Carayol to see how he is getting on with him been an ex-town player. I am surprised by Doukara’s form and with the number of goals that he's scoring but other than that I don’t tend to look at the Leeds squad.

Player who could make the difference tomorrow?

Sean Scannell can make a difference for us whether he is starting or coming off the bench as an impact player in the second half. I also hope that Joel Lynch starts in order to shore up the defence.

Do you think Town or Leeds will be 'top boys' in West Yorkshire?

A couple of weeks ago I would of said Town but our form has dipped and we have a difficult run to the end of the season. Leeds have also picked some wins up recently since the 4-0 defeat at Brighton and this has pushed them up the table.  As much as I hate to say it I think Leeds will finish above us again.

Your Prediction?

I am hoping we can find the net tomorrow so 2-1 win to Town…

By Keith Ingham
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Editors Note: It's always nice to see another fans perspective on the upcoming match, even if it may be a little bias towards their club! By the way, 3-1 Leeds.