Paul Merson makes Leeds United relegation claim amid Burnley showdown prediction
Leeds United are set to face Burnley on Saturday in what is a crucial early clash this season.
The two sides meet for the first time since their promotion to the Premier League, with both clubs finishing with 100 points.
However, Leeds have started better this season in the Premier League, and are four points off Burnley, who languish in the relegation zone.
Yet, despite this steady start for Daniel Farke’s side, many are still predicting that Leeds will be relegated this season.
Now, Paul Merson has joined in on this debate ahead of the match.
Paul Merson: Leeds United will survive if they keep current performances up
While Farke’s side may have put in poor performances this campaign, there have been plenty of great displays.
Leeds were excellent in their 3-1 victory over Wolves last month, which could prove to be a crucial win against an equally struggling side.
| Leeds’ head-to-head record against Burnley | |
| Wins | 34 |
| Draws | 13 |
| Losses | 19 |
On top of this, their 1-0 victory over Everton at Elland Road looks an extremely impressive feat, with the Toffees picking up numerous victories since the loss.
Now, reflecting on Leeds’ start, Merson told Sportskeeda on 17 October that he believes the Peacocks can stay in the Premier League as he previews their upcoming match.
“If Leeds perform like they did against Wolves, they win this game,” he said.
“Purely based on the first seven games this season, Leeds have proved they have what it takes to survive in the Premier League, unlike Burnley.
“But if I’m being very honest, I can’t pick a clear winner here. And if it ends up being a draw like I think, both Burnley and Leeds will be in that bottom five or six all season!
Merson then went on to predict a 1-1 draw between the two sides, in what could be a valuable point for Farke.
Daniel Farke: Burnley not a must-win game
Going into the match, Burnley are actually the favourites to take all three points.
This is despite Leeds having the better start to the season, and many of the Elland Road faithful expecting a win.
This comes after two winless Premier League games before the international break which has increased pressure on the manager.
- Burnley have a good record at home in the Premier League this season, losing just once
- The Clarets have already beaten newly-promoted Burnley at Turf Moor
- Now, Leeds are hoping to end this streak on Saturday
Ahead of the game, when asked if it was a must-win, Farke told BBC Sport on 16 October that Leeds were actually the “underdogs”.
He said: “Just for both teams an opportunity to win some points. Definitely not a must-win game.
“It’s an away game for a newly promoted side so you are always the underdog.
“Burnley had a fantastic season last season, they were our two most difficult games. Why should this be must-win for us?”
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