Paul Merson has some major concerns about Leeds United following their 4-0 thrashing to Arsenal on Saturday.
The Whites were put to the sword at Elland Road by the Premier League leaders, who headed back south with a resounding win thanks to goals from Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus, as well as a Karl Darlow own goal.
It’s only Leeds’ second defeat in their last 12 matches across all competitions and their last 11 Premier League outings. However, it was one that highlighted the defensive frailties lurking within Daniel Farke’s squad, should they let their standards drop.
Paul Merson admits Leeds United ‘worry’ after Arsenal thrashing
United managed just three shots and one shot on target on Saturday in a match where they were utterly outclassed by Arsenal.
Up next for Farke’s side is a key home clash with Nottingham Forest on Friday, with the two sides sitting 16th and 17th and separated by just a single point in the table at the time of writing.
Leeds can ill afford a performance similar to the one they put in against Arsenal, but Merson has his concerns following this defeat.
"My worry today is for Leeds,” former Arsenal, Aston Villa and England forward Merson said on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday. "They went into the game thinking they could compete against the likes of Arsenal, but they couldn't.”
Merson added: "That game against Nottingham Forest is massive now, especially now they are going into it with their confidence dented. Hopefully it doesn't affect them too much."
Leeds United vs Arsenal key stats
Possession: 49%-51%
Total shots: 3-14
Shots on target: 1-8
Big chances: 0-7
Expected goals (FotMob): 0.15-2.39
Corners: 4-12
What next for Leeds United?
As mentioned, Leeds must now dust themselves down as they prepare to face fellow relegation battlers Forest at Elland Road on Friday.
After that, it’s a challenging run of fixtures that sees Leeds travel to Chelsea, Birmingham City in the FA Cup Fourth Round, and Aston Villa, before returning to Elland Road to take on Manchester City and Sunderland.
Saturday’s defeat sees Leeds remain on 26 points, six points clear of West Ham United in the third and final relegation spot, with the Hammers surrendering a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 at Chelsea later the same day.
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