Mark Lawrenson predicts Leeds clash v Everton

Mark Lawrenson has backed Leeds United to get their first win of the Premier League season against Everton on Saturday.

The return of Kalvin Phillips has been strongly mooted, and that is said to be a huge factor in how the game plays out in West Yorkshire.

Lawrenson has predicted that it will finish 2-0 at Elland Road, with the Whites picking up a much-needed clean sheet.

Writing in his BBC predictions column, Lawrenson insisted that the return of fans will also help massively at Elland Road.

"I am presuming Kalvin Phillips will return to Leeds' starting line-up after missing their heavy defeat at Manchester United - they need him back in their midfield as soon as possible anyhow," he wrote.

"Everton had a very different day last time out, fighting back to beat Southampton, but I am expecting a big response from Leeds, especially at a full Elland Road."

Key man.

Phillips simply has to start, there is no excuse.

The Yorkshire Pirlo was missed desperately last weekend at Manchester United, and that left the Whites exposed for the entirety of the game.

Of course, no real blame can be attached to Robin Koch, that isn't his preferred position, and we have to get back to normal.

Marcelo Bielsa admitted he was closer to starting, but there is only so much you can ask him to do before just doing it - he doesn't have the luxury of time or ideal replacements.

Everton will be launching balls to Dominic Calvert-Lewin at every opportunity, we need Phillips in there to sweep up those loose balls.

We would take any win right now, no matter how we play - bring it home.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites are set to complete new signing, deal done way before August deadline - report