Leeds United are looking to go eight games unbeaten in the Premier League on Wednesday night when they take on Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, and it’s a difficult one to predict.
Leeds are in a great run of form and it could be that come Wednesday night, the Whites may have already taken a leap towards Premier League safety. That is because West Ham face Forest on Tuesday.
Gary Neville believes the clash between Forest and West Ham is key in the race to avoid relegation to the Championship. But on Wednesday night, Leeds face another tough fixture after a run of difficult games.
Leeds have remained unbeaten despite facing Liverpool twice, Chelsea, Man United, FA Cup winners Crystal Palace and away games at Sunderland and Brentford. Leeds have won twice, picking up 11 points.
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Chris Sutton makes Dominic Calvert-Lewin claim in prediction
Newcastle also come into the game in good form, having won their previous two matches. An away win over Burnley, followed by a home victory against a Palace side that are struggling with major fatigue.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Chris Sutton believes home advantage and ultimately, a better quality of player will see Newcastle get the job done. He backed a 2-0 home win, and discussed Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
“Newcastle not only got three points against Palace at the weekend, they kept their first clean sheet in the league since the start of October. Leeds have gone seven games unbeaten. They will be full of confidence.
“These two sides drew 0-0 at Elland Road in August but there will definitely be goals this time. I always back Newcastle at home, so why should I change now?,” Sutton said, having backed Newcastle to win 2-0.
“The only thing I’m unsure about here is whether Leeds will score. I’m going to say they won’t, so stand by for Dominic Calvert-Lewin to find the net again, probably in stoppage time,” Sutton summarised.
Paul Merson disagrees with Chris Sutton’s prediction
But to the relief of Leeds fans, Paul Merson doesn’t agree with Sutton’s prediction of a Newcastle win. He believes that Leeds’ form will be enough to get Farke’s men a result when they go to Tyneside this week.
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Former Arsenal man Merson told Sports Keeda that actually, he had not been particularly impressed with Newcastle in their win against Palace. He feels Leeds will secure another draw, a sixth draw in eight.
“Leeds are doing really well. They’re nicking points in difficult games when West Ham are failing to win easier matches. It’s a huge boost to Leeds’ aspirations of avoiding relegation,” Merson said about Leeds.
“Considering the way both teams are playing, I wouldn’t be surprised if Leeds got something out of this game. I’m going for an entertaining draw here. Prediction: Newcastle United 2-2 Leeds United.”
Leeds could welcome back Joe Rodon and Jayden Bogle, while Sean Longstaff may be fit enough to face his old side from the bench after missing the last eight games. Ethan Ampadu returns from injury.
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