Given the brutal nature of their league run-in, this is as ‘must win’ as it gets for Leeds United. Sam Allardyce’s outfit are facing a West Ham United team who are almost certainly safe, and used up ample energy on Thursday night reaching the UEFA Conference League Final. If Allardyce is to get the 3 points his team likely needs to stay up, they will not get a better chance than at the London Stadium.
West Ham United News
The Hammers are only missing one player, with star striker Gianluca Scamacca out for the remainder of the season with injury. Though he has struggled in the Premier League, the Italian has been crucial in their European run. Other than this, West Ham can look forward to the return of Vladimir Coufal as he made the bench again after a period of time out with injury.
Leeds United News
Leeds are in the opposite position, they are missing some key players. Attacking talent Luis Sinisterra is out for the season, while midfielders Tyler Adams and Marc Roca are both out of this game barring a fitness miracle. Also missing will be Junior Firpo, who was suspended, and Liam Cooper, who has struggled all year with injury and form issues.
Verdict
A hard one to call, but with West Ham more or less safe and energy expended in Alkmaar, we could see a surprise Leeds win. They have the need to win, as their remaining fixtures offer little hope of three points. In a way it is now or never for the Whites, and we can see it being now.
Score Prediction: 1-2
