A tough 5 – 0 thrashing at Arsenal will have left a bad taste in Leeds’ mouths ahead of their next Premier League fixture against Newcastle, but the Magpies’ woes could be Leeds’ gain.
Saturday afternoon was maybe one to forget for the Leeds squad and their fans, suffering a heavy defeat to Arsenal.
Ethan Ampadu’s absence was obvious as Arsenal ran riot, and the Yorkshire side broke an unfortunate 132-year record.
Ahead of their next clash at Elland Road, Leeds face Sheffield Wednesday in the Carabao Cup, a chance to bounce back.
But, their next Premier League opponents, Newcastle, have suffered a setback of their own, and it could play into Leeds’ hands.
Daniel Farke during Arsenal v Leeds United - Premier League.
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A decimated Newcastle squad provides an opportunity for Leeds
Following Newcastle United’s dramatic 2-3 defeat to Liverpool, Leeds United have been handed a significant advantage as they prepare to face a depleted Magpies squad.
Eddie Howe’s side are reeling from multiple key absences, providing Leeds with a golden opportunity to hopefully secure three points at home.
The most notable casualty is forward Anthony Gordon, whose straight red card means he will be suspended for the match at Elland Road, removing one of Newcastle’s primary attacking threats.
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In midfield, Leeds are unlikely to have to contend with Sandro Tonali and Joelinton, both of whom picked up concerning injuries against Liverpool. Their absence would be a massive blow to Newcastle, stripping them of two physical and creative players. The potential loss of Fabian Schar, who was also forced off with a concussion, further weakens their backline.
These combined issues mean Leeds United will face a Newcastle side that is not only short on personnel but also potentially low on morale after a bruising defeat. It’s a perfect storm for the Whites to capitalise on at a packed Elland Road.
Newcastle United v Leeds United - Premier League.
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Recent history favours a tight affair between Leeds and Newcastle
Leeds United’s historical record against Newcastle United is a mixed bag, with both sides having enjoyed periods of dominance. However, looking at more recent matchups, a clear trend of close, hard-fought games emerges.
In the 2022-23 Premier League season, both encounters ended in draws. The first was a goalless stalemate at St. James’ Park, and the return fixture at Elland Road finished 2-2.
The season before, Newcastle secured a narrow 1-0 win at Elland Road, while the match at St. James’ Park ended 1-1. This pattern of results contrasts with the high-scoring games seen in their promotion season back in 2020-21, where Leeds won 5-2 at home before a 2-1 away victory.
The recent trend of draws and narrow wins suggests this fixture has become a much tighter affair, with both teams now more evenly matched on the pitch.