Leeds United have had 10 days to stew on the disappointment of losing to Southampton at Wembley.
The Whites were consigned to a second successive season of Championship football with a 1-0 defeat against the Saints last month, in what was a bitterly disappointing way to end the campaign.
Due to the failure to achieve their objective of returning to the Premier League, Leeds’ squad now looks set to be broken up ahead of the new season in August.
49ers Enterprises know that some key players are going to have to leave, as they look to ensure they remain compliant with the EFL’s PSR constraints.
However, Paraag Marathe has insisted there will be funds available for replacements, while Red Bull’s lucrative sponsorship deal should also help when it comes to keeping some of their main men.
What Leeds players have said about the play-offs and next season
There have only been just over a handful of players to break their silence on the defeat at Wembley so far.
Some players like to express their disappointment in different ways, though, and fans shouldn’t read too much into not posting meaning they do not care.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the first to post a message to supporters on social media was long-time club captain Liam Cooper, who took only a couple of days to do so.
Cooper looks as though he has played his last game for the club and so left his message short but sweet on Instagram. He said: “Proud of our club. We will come again.”
Connor Roberts then followed him shortly after as he expressed his gratitude for getting the opportunity to play for Leeds, while also confirming his departure.
He said: “Football ey.. Obviously so disappointed not to achieve what we all wanted, but honestly what a massive privilege it was to play just a hand full of games and be involved at this incredible Football Club.
“An invaluable experience and something I’ll remember forever! Thanks for the spectacular support ladies and gents!”
Jaidon Anthony, Mateo Joseph, Georginio Rutter, Ethan Ampadu and Dan James have all also addressed the fans in the last week, with some certainly dropping some big hints on where their futures lie.
Anthony was first: “An honour to wear this shirt! No secret this has been the toughest year of my life but your support has got me through! Not the end any of us wanted but I’ve met some amazing people and created some special memories playing for this club! Thank you Leeds fans, you are something special.”
Joseph wasn’t long after: “Gutted we were so close to getting the club back to the Premier League. This team and these fans deserved better. But I’m thankful for all your support and the experiences this season. Time to rest up and comeback stronger.”
Posts by Rutter, Ampadu and James have certainly perked fans up ahead of next season with all three hinting they will be staying at Elland Road.
Rutter said: “Hello Leeds fans, a few days have passed but still as much disappointment, the objective was not achieved despite a superb season where each of us gave our maximum. Thank you for your support throughout the year see you soon. MOT.”
Ampadu added: “We will be back. Gutted to end it like that but massive thank you for all your support this season. See you next season.”
James was the most recent: “Fell short at the last hurdle after a tough season. A huge thank you to the Leeds United family this year for the constant support. We’ll be back.”
What have we learned about who could stay at Leeds?
Based on the posts so far, it is certain that neither Roberts or Anthony will be coming back permanently after their respective loans from Burnley and Bournemouth.
With Cooper leaving it short and brief, that does still leave an element of uncertainty surrounding his future, but all reports are pointing to him leaving at the end of his contract.
There has never really been any doubt regarding whether Joseph would stay or go, and hopefully he will receive more game time next season.
But the good news certainly comes via the posts of Rutter, Ampadu and James, with all three making reference towards next season. What a boost that would be.