Former striker and pundit Chris Sutton has delivered an ominous prediction for Leeds United, suggesting things could turn ugly for manager Daniel Farke if his side fails to get a result against a confident Aston Villa this weekend.
Villa's Formidable Momentum
Aston Villa return to Premier League action following the international break in impressive form. Unai Emery's side head to Elland Road on the back of a resounding 4-0 victory over AFC Bournemouth in their last outing.
The goals at Villa Park came from Emi Buendia, Amadou Onana, Ross Barkley, and Donyell Malen. This commanding performance has cemented Villa's position in sixth place, with the team sitting just one point off the coveted top four.
Leeds' Relegation Concerns
For their opponents, the outlook is considerably more tense. Leeds United find themselves in 16th position in the league after their first 11 fixtures, having won only three games so far this season.
The Whites are nervously looking over their shoulder, as they are a mere single point above the relegation zone. A significant part of their problem has been a leaky defence; Daniel Farke’s side have conceded 20 goals this campaign, a tally only exceeded by Burnley, West Ham, and Wolves.
The challenge does not get any easier after the Villa match, with a brutal festive period on the horizon featuring games against Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool.
Sutton's Tense Elland Road Prediction
In his prediction for BBC Sport, Chris Sutton highlighted the immense pressure on the home side. He acknowledged that Leeds have been strong at home, picking up eight of their 11 points at Elland Road.
However, he issued a stark warning: If they lose at home to Aston Villa... then it could start to turn ugly for Farke if they fall into the relegation places.
Sutton also pointed to Villa's exceptional recent record, noting they have won eight of their past 10 matches in all competitions. Ultimately, he does not foresee a Villa loss. Sutton's prediction: 1-1. He concluded that a draw would represent a good result for a Leeds side desperate to stop the rot.
