Peter Crouch was left deeply impressed by Leeds United after their win over Everton at Elland Road on Monday night and has predicted whether The Whites will avoid relegation.
While the goal may have come in controversial circumstances, as James Tarkowski was adjudged to have handled Anton Stach’s shot in the area, Leeds were the better side with David Moyes admitting as much.
Other than half-chances for Carlos Alcaraz and Jake O’Brien, Lucas Perri was largely untested. Down the other end, Leeds had 12 shots to Everton’s 0 at the break with Jordan Pickford the busier goalkeeper.
Eventually, Lukas Nmecha came off the bench to score the penalty with aplomb despite Pickford staring at his water bottle for a while beforehand. Peter Crouch actually predicted a draw before the 1-0 win.
Peter Crouch on punditry duty.
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Peter Crouch backs Leeds to survive the drop, on one condition
Leeds are already a stronger side than they were against Everton. Jaka Bijol is available after serving his suspension, Noah Okafor is set to sign on Thursday and Dominic Calvert-Lewin is closer to full fitness.
The Leeds United Club Badge.
Photo by Visionhaus
But Saturday evening sees Leeds go up against Arsenal at The Emirates, one of the hardest fixtures in the calendar. On That Peter Crouch Podcast, Crouch said if Leeds maintain their energy, they will be “fine”.
“Certainly at home, they’re going to pick up points. The energy, sprints, closing down, the atmosphere, if they keep that up for the whole season, they’re going to be fine. I was really impressed with them, Leeds.”
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Predicting Leeds United’s next five games with Arsenal up next
While many will have been optimistic with a game against Everton at home, that optimism will become realism among fans that a trip to Arsenal is always going to be difficult and defeat will not be criticised.
Mikel Arteta’s side beat Manchester United at Old Trafford on the opening day and are many’s prediction to win the title. Up next is Newcastle at home, a good time to play them given the Alexander Isak issue.
Date Opponent Venue Prediction
23 August Arsenal The Emirates 3-0 (L)
30 August Newcastle Elland Road 1-1 (D)
13 September Fulham Craven Cottage 1-1 (D)
20 September Wolves Molineux 1-2 (W)
27 September Bournemouth Elland Road 1-2 (L)
After the international break, three fixtures that Leeds may deem winnable. Fulham and Wolves away, before taking on Bournemouth at Elland Road. If Leeds can come out of it with five points, a good start.