Leeds United 'favourites' as double transfer prediction shared by expert

David Norris has backed Leeds United to thrive under enormous pressure this season, with supporter expectation high in the Championship.

Following the release of the EFL fixtures at the end of last month, fans at Elland Road have made some bold predictions including that their side will smash the 100-point barrier - a feat that has only been achieved on five occasions.

Despite losing one of England's most exciting young prospects Archie Gray to Tottenham last week, plus the risk of losing further stars, Leeds remain among the favourites to claim the Championship title, and former midfielder Norris has backed the projection.

"Leeds are favourites to get promoted and the supporters will be expectant," Norris exclusively told MOT Leeds News.

"Playing at home on the first day will definitely play in their favour, and from there they can hope to start well. Leeds know that a lot of people expect them to play well and there might not be as much room for error, which [Daniel Farke] will know.

"They are still missing a few players and I do still think Summerville and Gnonto will go, but I expect them to start well and get over the line this season."

Leeds United must fly from the blocks

Leeds United, as Norris acknowledges, have to start well or questions will be asked of Farke and the hierarchy.

Supporters at Elland Road have been gracious in the departure of Gray from his boyhood club, and understand the club's need to sell players having missed out on promotion back in May.

The Whites begin the campaign in what will be an electric home atmosphere against newly-promoted Portsmouth on 10 August - another of Norris' former clubs - and they will be smelling blood.

Trips to West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield Wednesday follow before rounding off August at home to Hull City - fans will moot at least three victories from these opening four fixtures, and as seen with the Championship's best-ever performers, they are relentless every week.

Frustration will fester quickly if results are sluggish, but if Leeds do fly from the traps, that buoyancy and momentum may just cruise the team through the season to return to the Premier League.

In other Leeds news, the club are eyeing an ideal Gray replacement.

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