Kris Boyd doesn't think Leeds United are close to being able to gatecrash the top six this season.
Marcelo Bielsa's side took the lead through Raphinha's early strike at Newcastle on Friday night but were pegged back on the stroke of half-time when Allan Saint-Maximin fired a low shot home.
The result leaves the Whites without a win from their opening five Premier League matches and currently sit just outside the relegation zone, with this their worst start under Marcelo Bielsa.
Having finished the 2020/21 campaign in ninth place, hopes were high for Leeds to push on but they have already faced two of last term's top three in Manchester United and Liverpool.
The former Rangers forward, however, believes that Leeds won't get relegated despite fears of a 'second-season syndrome' but did admit they should be doing better.
Speaking on Sky Sports' Soccer Saturday, Boyd said: "I'm surprised they haven't won a game of football so far in the league this season.
"I don't think Leeds are going to be in a relegation fight but in terms of them pushing on and being up where the fans think they should be; they're a long, long way from that.
"They've obviously brought in Dan James and spent a bit more money this season to go on to the £100m or so they spent last year.
"They should be doing better and for me, I don't think they will get relegated. But I think that expectation of making sure they consolidate in the Premier League and build again.
"They finished ninth last year but I think going on to gatecrash the top four and top six is a long way away."
The Whites' attention now turns to Tuesday night's Carabao Cup third-round clash against Fulham, before they host West Ham United next weekend.
