Chris Sutton admits Norwich City concern in Leeds United play-off verdict at Elland Road
Josh Sargent’s injury is a “worry” for Norwich City admits Chris Sutton but the pundit is still leaning towards them beating Leeds United back at Elland Road.
The former Canaries striker reacted live on BBC Radio 5 Live’s 606 on 12 May after the goalless draw in the first leg at Carrow Road earlier in the day, disputing Robbie Savage’s suggestion that the result leaves Daniel Farke’s side in the driving seat.
The Whites recorded a first clean sheet in five games after a nightmare end to the Championship season, as American forward Sargent was withdrawn early, to take Norwich back to West Yorkshire level before their own home advantage, but Sutton isn’t convinced.
Savage said (3m): “Christopher, you’ve got to fancy Leeds haven’t you?”
Sutton replied: “Erm, do you know what? I don’t think that’s the worst result [for Norwich]. Elland Road, right, brilliant stadium that it is, but with what’s at stake?
“Josh Sargent went off injured towards the end, that’s a worry, but imagine if Leeds fans get a little bit nervy, I’ve got a feeling for the Canaries Rob.”
Josh Sargent injured in first leg vs Leeds United
If Sargent is out for the return then David Wagner will lose his 16-goal top scorer in an obvious blow to their chances of making the Wembley final on 26 May.
The Elland Road crowd has the ability to intimidate any visiting side, and Liam Cooper has already made a plea for it to do so, but it can equally put Leeds United on edge if the tension grows and events aren’t going the right way.
Farke may have seen his defence return to the sort of form that saw Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu restrict goals conceded to just three in 13 league games from the start of 2024 at Carrow Road, but he also has concerns in attack of his own.
Patrick Bamford’s injury has come as star man Georginio Rutter’s form has dipped, with Joel Piroe off the boil for a while.
Crysencio Summerville is no longer at his unstoppable best after being named Championship Player of the Season while injury has also disrupted Dan James’ excellent previous form.
So while on paper Leeds United should indeed be favourites this week there aren’t likely to be many fans who are outright confident in the result, especially given the club’s history in the play offs.
In other Leeds United news, a high-profile figure is making Whites play-off final plans.
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