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Paul Merson predicts result of Leeds United clash against Newcastle United
Leeds United host Newcastle United on Elland Road on Saturday (22 January) and will be keen to make it three consecutive league wins against the visitors.
Paul Merson is tipping them to do just exactly that, predicting a 2-1 victory for Marcelo Bielsa’s side while previewing the Premier League six-pointer in his Sportskeeda column.
Leeds know a victory will move them closer to the top half of the table, while Eddie Howe’s side will move out of the bottom-three with a win, so both sides have a lot to play for.
Merson said: “Leeds managed a brilliant result against West Ham in their previous Premier League game, and this is suddenly not as big a match now.
“The pressure is off for Leeds – if they win this game, they’re safe. Leeds do give away too many chances, however, and I think the pace of Almiron could hurt them.
“I’m going to go with a Leeds victory here. Newcastle are struggling in the Premier League and can’t seem to win a game.
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“They were in front against Watford last week but just couldn’t seem to hang on. I think Newcastle can find the back of the net here, but Leeds should be able to win this game
Huge game
The Whites are currently 15th in the table with 22 points, while the Magpies are in 19th place with 12 points.
Just four places separate them in the table, but the 10-point difference is not a lot if the result does not go their way.
Leeds have been struck down with more injuries, and that could make the clash a tricky one for them.
Bielsa will be without Adam Forshaw, Junior Firpo, Sam Greenwood, Charlie Cresswell, Kalvin Phillips, Jamie Shackleton, Liam Cooper and Patrick Bamford, while Joe Gelhardt and Tyler Roberts are doubts.
They did manage to get a win at the London Stadium last time out despite their thin squad and will be hoping to do something similar against Newcastle.
With just a win to their names in 20 games, the Saudi-owned outfit know they are slowly running out of time to save their campaign, and it is why they will be giving their all come Saturday.
A win will do both teams loads of good, and a tough game is surely on the cards.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites want to sign int’l striker on loan with move already made.