Brian McDermott firmly believes Saturday’s game against Leicester City represented a first for him since taking over as the club’s manager last April.

Coming off the back of defeats at Rochdale and Sheffield Wednesday, the boss shuffled his pack and opted for a 4-4-2 system with two wingers, new signings Cameron Stewart and Jimmy Kebe making their home debuts.

“That was the first time as manager of Leeds I’ve been able to put a team out that can take us where we need to go,” said the boss.

“If you look at the last 10 years in this league, teams that have come out of it have pace in wide areas, good strikers, midfielders who can pass it, a solid back four, and a good goalkeeper. That’s what we’re looking to do.

“History doesn’t lie and it shows what you need. That was how I want to play. We had the two wingers. Jimmy Kebe had a fitness test before the game and he will get better.

“Leicester have been trying for a long time to get out of this league. They’ve spent big. Nigel knows what he’s doing and he knows his history. You have to emulate that by getting a squad where you know what you are going to get every week.

“I’ve been in a situation where you’ve nicked games – games you have no right to win – and that’s what they did on Saturday. They were strong and resilient. It was a one goal game, and they got it. Teams at the top nick games.

“There’s still a long way to go this season yet. We’re not looking too far ahead. You’re trying to build a team and it will take time.”