Leeds United have Burnley to worry about after Frank Lampard and Everton lose
Leeds United have a new rival to be concerned about after Burnley’s victory over Everton put them six points behind the Whites with two games in hand.
After two wins and a draw in the past three games, the relegation pressure had subsided considerably at Elland Road, as the bottom three looked set to drop.
But even at his lowest point old rival Frank Lampard found a way to make United fans unhappy, as his Toffees side conceded a late goal to Maxwel Cornet at Turf Moor to give Sean Dyche’s side hope.
It probably comes as little surprise to the supporters that the outcome has a negative effect on the Whites considering the involvement of former Derby boss Lampard.
His time with the Rams saw Marcelo Bielsa briefly become a pariah over the Spygate episode, with the ex-England midfielder’s comments that it was “bad” and “doesn’t work for me” (Sky Sports, via iNews) leading to the “Stop crying Frank Lampard” song that fans developed in response.
The Argentine recovered to become one of the most popular managers in England.
But the Derby boss cemented his place in Whites fans’ bad books when footage emerged of him singing the song in the Elland Road dressing room after his side won in the playoff semi-final.
Two to watch
Such is the improved form under Jesse Marsch, the club should feel confident in picking up enough points to remain clear of both Everton and Burnley.
But as both have two games in hand, if they are able to find form they are mathematically able to reel in United.
The drama that saw back-to-back injury time wins heading into the international break felt like it had mostly rescued the slide towards the drop.
But being pegged back by Southampton, and then missing out on what looked like should have been a late penalty, leaves the door open to re-enter the mire.
Burnley’s late win on Wednesday (6 April) could have had a similar effect that Luke Ayling’s strike had at Wolves.
And Dyche has found a way to keep the Clarets in the top flight for six seasons, so offering his side hope is not something any relegation candidates will be thankful for.
The Whites still have it in their own hands, but they will have to be on their toes with two sides now within touching distance below them.
In other Leeds United news, crucial talks at a European giant are the are the “only thing” that can stop a move for one Elland Road Star.