Leeds have made a cracking start to life in the Premier League and will be looking to maintain momentum after the international break.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side have taken points off Manchester City and bloodied the noses of champions Liverpool – so they have nothing to fear.
With that in mind, we’ve predicted the outcome of the Whites’ next five games.
It might be a fool’s errand to try and make predictions in what is shaping up to be a crazy season, but we’ve given it a go…
Wolves (H) – Win
Another cracking encounter is on the cards on Monday night when Leeds host Wolves at Elland Road.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side don’t look as defensively solid as in the previous past two seasons, and are getting to grips with some new arrivals.
Leeds’ tempo and energy may well prove too much for the Old Gold, although it’ll be a close game.
Much might depend on who is the fresher side after international excursions and that’s where Bielsa’s rigorous fitness methods come into their own.
Aston Villa (A) – Draw
This one will be a spicy encounter and a chance for England internationals Jack Grealish and Kalvin Phillips to pit themselves against each other.
Villa have recruited well and sit second in the Premier League at the time of writing, so it won’t be an easy game at all.
A draw looks the likeliest outcome, but if Leeds can produce an away performance like the one at Sheffield United last month, they’re capable of getting a win.
Noel Whelan: Leeds through and through
- Boyhood club
Noel Whelan came through Leeds’ academy and starred for the side in the FA Youth Cup.
- First team star
Whelan went onto make nearly 50 appearances for Leeds between 1993 and 1995 before being sold to Coventry City for £2 million.
- The voice of Leeds
Whelan is a passionate Leeds fan and co-commentates on matches for BBC Radio Leeds. His enthusiasm for the club has made him a big hit with supporters.
Leicester (H) – Draw
The Foxes are another side who have made a strong start to the season, up until the loss at home to West Ham last time out.
Jamie Vardy comes into his own away from home against a high line and that will make him a threat in this one.
This should be another entertaining game as Brendan Rodgers is a manager committed to attacking football.
Crystal Palace (A) – Win
Palace are a solid, workmanlike side but prefer to play on the counter.
On their own patch, the onus is on them to make more of the running, which doesn’t really suit them.
They like to keep it compact at the back, but Leeds’ heavy pressing and all-action style may drag Palace out of position.
Leeds do have a tricky run in their first five games but this looks a good opportunity for a win.
Arsenal (H) – Draw
Leeds still owe Arsenal one for knocking them out of the FA Cup last season.
Bielsa’s side deserved far more from that trip to the Emirates Stadium and utterly dominated the first half.
This one could be similar to Leeds’ clash with City, although Mikel Arteta is a bit more cautious than Pep Guardiola, especially on the road.
A draw here to make it through the next five unbeaten – meaning Leeds’ only defeat of the season came on opening weekend – would be a very good return indeed.
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