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Paul Merson predicts result of Leeds clash vs Southampton
Paul Merson believes Leeds can ‘comfortably’ avoid relegation if they keep playing as they have been, and made his pick for the game against Southampton this weekend.
Leeds have picked up back-to-back wins in the Premier League for only the second time this season, with Jesse Marsch overseeing late wins against Norwich and Wolves.
That has helped to open up a seven-point gap above the relegation zone although the club have played more games than their relegation rivals. Merson though feels they’re playing well and predicted a 2-2 draw which he says wouldn’t be a bad result.
“This could be an exciting game with lots of goals, so I’m predicting a 2-2 draw,” he said.
“Leeds have had a couple of good results on the spin under Jesse Marsch and should comfortably avoid the drop if they carry on playing like this, but Southampton are a good team as well.
“They played really well against Manchester City in the FA Cup but ended up losing 4-1, which I felt was a bit harsh. A draw won’t be a bad result for either of these teams.”
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Turnaround
It’s been a rollercoaster of a season so far for Leeds, but it seems there may finally be light at the end of the tunnel for them.
Marsch is due to welcome back several first-team stars from injury over the next couple of games and despite losing Patrick Bamford for the remainder of the season they’re much stronger now.
That should see an improvement in their results between now and the end of the season and with the cushion they’ve given themselves that would see them safe.
They can play with a little bit less pressure now considering the teams below them play each other too during the run-in, and that could mean some entertainment on the pitch.
Southampton have struggled in recent weeks, suffering four losses in a row in all competitions, so a draw seems like a good shout although the Elland Road faithful will be keen to make it five.
In other Leeds news, ‘It’s out there’ – Jesse Marsch discussed major Leeds transfer developments from this week