Mark Lawrenson predicts Leeds clash v Newcastle
Mark Lawrenson has backed Leeds United to get their first three points of the Premier League season this evening against Newcastle.
Neither side has won yet this season, with both being heavily beaten by Liverpool and Manchester United last time out.
Lawrenson has predicted that it will finish 2-1 to the Whites, with Steve Bruce having big problems to solve at St James’ Park.
Writing in his BBC predictions column, Lawrenson insisted that the fortunes of the Whites will change soon.
“Neither of these teams have won yet, but it is Newcastle I worry about more,” he wrote.
“I look at the way Leeds are playing and think results will turn around for them soon, but that is not the case for Newcastle.
“Magpies boss Steve Bruce is already under pressure and that is only going to increase if things go badly for them on Friday night. Being without their best striker, Callum Wilson, because he is still injured is not going to help.”
Crisis.
Marcelo Bielsa is facing yet another defensive crisis ahead of the trip to St James’ Park this evening.
Diego Llorente and Robin Koch are out injured, with Pascal Struijk serving the first of his three-game suspension.
That means either Luke Ayling or Charlie Cresswell will partner Liam Cooper at the back – not leaving many with confidence.
Based on that, hopes of three points will likely rest on the shoulders of those in the final third, where the Whites are at full strength.
Raphinha, Jack Harrison, Patrick Bamford and Dan James will be ready to be unleashed after a tough start to the season against some big names.
Three points are all that matters at this stage of the campaign, and it would surely lift the mood at Elland Road, that’s for sure.
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