Leeds United’s trip to Tottenham has taken on a whole new feel after both sides picked up important wins this weekend.
Leeds’ 3–1 win over Burnley on Friday night moved them onto 43 points, leaving them virtually safe, while Spurs climbed out of the relegation zone with a big away victory at Aston Villa on Sunday.
By the time Leeds head to north London on Monday, their survival could already be confirmed. Still, it’s a massive match for Tottenham, who have built some momentum and will be looking to keep that going at home.
West Ham will be hoping Leeds can do them a favour in the survival battle, while Roberto De Zerbi has addressed the fresh injury concerns facing his side ahead of next Monday’s game.
The Tottenham boss raises fresh injury concerns ahead of the Leeds clash
The win over Aston Villa on Sunday night was huge for Tottenham, who have now picked up seven points from their last three Premier League games.
Spurs also have a debilitating injury list, which has contributed to the side fighting for their survival in the Premier League after playing Champions League football this season.
Robert De Zerbi has already admitted that Tottenham need to work harder if they have to beat an in-form Leeds team next week.
There were fresh concerns around a couple of players following the win at Villa Park, and Tottenham boss De Zerbi has provided clarification ahead of the Leeds game.
Rodrigo Bentancur was substituted midway through the second half after receiving treatment from the Spurs medical staff, which worried Tottenham fans.
However, De Zerbi has calmed down nerves and told reporters after the game: “Bentancur, just tired.”
Micky van de Ven was seen limping late on as Spurs conceded in stoppage time, with an Emiliano Buendía header ultimately serving as little more than a consolation.
The Spurs boss said about the Dutchman: “No, no, no. He’s ok.”
The Whites still have a huge role to play
If West Ham are beaten by Arsenal on Sunday, Leeds will be mathematically safe before they even head to Tottenham next Monday night.
That puts the Whites in an interesting position, with a big say in who ends up getting relegated by the end of the season.
No matter what happens this weekend, West Ham will be looking to Leeds for a favour when they face Spurs next week as they fight to stay up.
Spurs, meanwhile, will also be keeping a close eye on things at the London Stadium on the final day, when West Ham host Leeds in what could be a decisive clash.
