Leeds United were up against Arsenal this weekend, flying high after an opening day victory over Everton. But the game at the Emirates on Saturday was sort of a wake up call for the Whites.
They dominated and outplayed Everton at Elland Road, but on Saturday they felt the full force of Mikel Arteta’s side. The Gunners ended up winning the game 5-0, with most goals coming from capitalizing on Leeds’ sloppiness. Arsenal were a serious threat from set pieces, scoring two from them. After the game, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink criticized the team’s defending on set pieces.
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Leeds face Newcastle in their next Premier League game, but take on Sheffield Wednesday in the EFL Cup on Tuesday night first.
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Newcastle suffer huge blow ahead of Leeds United game
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This weekend’s opponents were also in a fiercely contested game on Monday night. The Magpies battled, but lost against Liverpool thanks to a late winner from the Reds. Eddie Howe’s side came out of the game with some major problems.
Newcastle could be without up to five players for the Leeds game. Anthony Gordon will miss the match through suspension as he was sent off. Fabian Schar will be ruled out of playing against Leeds due to concussion protocols. Alexander Isak continues to force a move away from the club, while Sandro Tonali and Joelinton picked up injuries in the middle of the game.
“They’re genuine injuries that come up in the middle of the game, and that would be a huge blow to us,” Howe said. “Joey doesn’t look great, to be honest, especially when the signal was so early when he went down.
“Sandro, again doesn’t look good, couldn’t move his arm. He said he wanted to stay on, but he wasn’t functioning properly. Obviously, we lose Anthony through suspension and Fabian through a concussion.”
Leeds also face new injury concern
Ethan Ampadu is already out for the next few weeks. But Leeds have another concern after Ao Tanaka was subbed during the Arsenal game. Daniel Farke said the midfielder had a problem with his MCL, which is set to be assessed. Leeds will find out the full extent of the injury in the coming days.
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