Leeds United are heading into one of the hardest periods of their season, with two huge games arriving back-to-back. The Whites travel to face Liverpool at Anfield on New Year’s Day, before returning home to Elland Road to take on bitter rivals Manchester United just days later.
On paper, both games look extremely tough. These are two of the biggest clubs in England, with long histories and strong squads. But the mood around Leeds is different right now. Confidence is growing, performances are improving, and many fans believe Leeds can get something from both matches.
What makes this run even more interesting is that neither Liverpool nor Manchester United arrives in top form. Both teams have shown weaknesses in recent weeks, and Leeds will feel there are chances to be taken.
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Liverpool Weakness Gives Leeds Hope at Anfield
Liverpool remains dangerous, especially at home, but cracks have started to show. Defender Virgil van Dijk has openly spoken about problems defending set pieces this season. That is music to Leeds’ ears.
Leeds have been one of the strongest sides in the league from dead-ball situations. Corners and free kicks have brought goals regularly, and the delivery into the box has caused problems for many teams. If Liverpool struggles again in those moments, Leeds will believe they can punish them.
Anfield is always a difficult place to go, but Leeds have already shown this season that they do not fear big grounds. A strong start and smart defending could make this game far closer than many expect.
Gary Neville Takes a Dig Ahead of Elland Road Clash
While Leeds focus on Liverpool, attention has also turned to Sunday’s clash with Manchester United. Despite United’s own problems, former defender and pundit Gary Neville has taken a swipe at Leeds ahead of the game.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Neville suggested that Leeds are one of the teams Manchester United should be picking up points against. He grouped Leeds with sides near the bottom of the table, hinting that anything less than a win for United would be disappointing.
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Those comments have not gone down well with Leeds supporters. Many feel they show a lack of respect, especially given Leeds’ recent results and strong home form.
Manchester United Problems Add Extra Pressure
Manchester United are not arriving at Elland Road in a good place. A recent draw at home has increased pressure, and manager Ruben Amorim is dealing with a growing injury list.
Key players are missing, and confidence among the squad looks fragile. Playing away at Elland Road, with a loud crowd and an aggressive Leeds side, is one of the toughest tests in the league right now.
Even Neville admitted that United fans are worried about this fixture. Elland Road has become a hostile place again, and Leeds are feeding off that energy.
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Elland Road Is a Fortress Again
Leeds’ home form has been a major talking point. Elland Road is once again a ground teams fear visiting. Big performances against top sides have changed the mood completely.
Recent wins and draws at home have shown Leeds can compete with anyone when backed by their fans. The tempo, pressing and belief have all returned. Even teams above Leeds in the table have struggled badly when visiting West Yorkshire.
This is why Neville’s comments feel wide of the mark. Leeds are no longer easy opponents, especially at home. Treating them like a routine fixture could be a costly mistake.
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A Chance to Prove the Doubters Wrong
History may favour Manchester United, but football is about the present, not the past. Leeds are playing with confidence, while United are searching for answers.
Sunday now feels like a chance for Leeds to send a message. A strong performance would not only bring valuable points but also silence critics who still underestimate them.
If Leeds can take anything from these two games, it will confirm that they are moving in the right direction. And if they manage to beat Manchester United at Elland Road, Gary Neville’s words will be remembered for all the wrong reasons.
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