Both Liverpool and Leeds United have enjoyed contrasting starts to the Premier League season.
The former Premier League Champions are unbeaten with seven points from a possible nine after impressive wins over Norwich and Burnley before an entertaining draw with title rivals Chelsea.
Meanwhile, Leeds United have yet to win a game. After an opening day thumping to Manchester United, the Whites have drawn back-to-back games against Everton and Burnley leaving them on just two points.
That said, last season Marcelo Bielsa’s boys made the six time European Champions struggle. On the opening day of last season they played their part in a scintillating contest which ended 4-3 in Liverpool’s favour courtesy of a Mohammed Salah penalty late on. Then at Elland Road, the Whites got a point against Jurgen Klopp’s men.
This could be an even more difficult game for Liverpool now that fans are back. Their return has undoubtedly contributed to a superb atmosphere in United’s first two home games of the season against Everton and Crewe and could make things difficult for Liverpool.
Thus, Klopp will want all hands on deck meaning he’ll be sweating on the fitness of young starlet Harvey Elliot.
The 18-year-old is a star of the future and has featured in all three of Liverpool’s games this season. He came off the bench against Norwich, played a starring role in the win over Burnley and was trusted with a start against Chelsea in which he was one of Liverpool’s best players offering attacking spark from midfield.
However, his availability at Elland Road is under threat after a minor muscle injury whilst on England Under 21s duty. That said, according to a report from the Athletic, Liverpool expect Elliott to be fit enough to feature against the Whites.
A relatively unknown quality, he’ll be a difficult player for Bielsa’s side to deal with in midfield. Based on his recent performances, the likes of Kalvin Phillips will have to play well to diminish his threat.
