Leeds United’s victory over Norwich City on Sunday afternoon lifted spirits around Elland Road, and rightly so. The side had previously gone on a six-match losing streak, five of which included losses without scoring, and a 90+4 minute last gasp winner from Joe Gelhardt secured all three points against fellow strugglers Norwich, increasing the gap between Leeds and the bottom three to four points with nine fixtures remaining.
Although many saw Norwich as a must win, the manner of the win has lifted the mood around the fan base – partly because of the last minute strike, but also because Leeds’ new boss Jesse Marsch has his first win under his belt following a commanding display against Leicester City, but also a very poor performance against Aston Villa midweek.
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Matt West/Shutterstock 12845281bd Joe Gelhardt of Leeds United celebrates scoring a goal to make it 2-1 Leeds United v Norwich City, Premier League, Football, Elland Road, Leeds, UK – 13 Mar 2022Â
Despite the much needed win, former Manchester United defender, and current Sky Sports pundit, Gary Neville has been speaking out about Leeds’ situation, and its fair to say that he isn’t as positive as some of the Leeds supporters.
Following the 2-1 result at Elland Road, Neville believes that Leeds can’t get ahead of themselves:
“I think they’re in a little bit of trouble. I saw them against Aston Villa and they were awful.”
“I didn’t see the weekend game but you expect them to beat Norwich.”
Although Leeds have increased the gap between themselves and the relegation zone following Sunday’s win, the former England international still feels that Leeds have a long way to go, and that the side may potentially struggle to survive in the Premier League.
Of the four teams currently below Leeds in the table, both Everton (three) and Burnley (two) have games in hand over the Whites – despite Leeds playing three games before the 10th April compared to Burnley’s singular fixture at home to Manchester City within the same time frame, potentially allowing the Whites to increase the point gap further between their relegation rivals.
Of Leeds’ remaining nine matches, the side play five of the bottom half teams, including Watford and Brentford who are also fighting to battle against the drop – with Watford currently occupying one of the relegation places.
Leeds do however have tough fixtures against Manchester City and Chelsea at Elland Road, as well as a trip to the Emirates stadium to face Arsenal in the penultimate away game of the season.
Leeds’ next fixture is an away match against Wolves at Molineux on Friday night, with Leeds winning just two games in the Premier League away from Elland Road all season; losing eight.
