Gary Neville expects Leeds United to scrape their Premier League status for another season come May. Last year, the Whites were bookmakers’ favourites to be relegated going into the final game of the campaign.
A nervy - but valiant - encounter away at Brentford ensured Leeds another crack at top-flight football in 2022-23. Newcastle United also lent Jesse Marsch’s side a helping hand by beating Burnley in their own backyard.
However, many of the same problems have persisted this season. A staggering 33 goals conceded places Leeds third in the division - highlighting the need for defensive reinforcements.
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Maximilian Wober has arrived from Red Bull Salzburg but the Whites’ problems run deeper. Perennial injury woes to star players continue to plague Elland Road.
Much like Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford last season, summer arrival Luis Sinisterra has endured a long spell on the sidelines. Crysencio Summerville has also had his issues while Bamford - who returned from injury on Friday night - still cannot seem to stay fit.
Defeat at Villa Park meant Leeds have gone without a win in seven games for the second time this campaign. Sitting just two points above the drop zone, fears are beginning to heighten about a potential Championship return.
However, speaking on Sky Sports after the Aston Villa loss, former Manchester United captain Neville tipped Leeds to beat the drop. He said: “For Leeds, it’s a little precarious. I think it will probably continue to be like that for the rest of the season, but I think they will just be okay.”
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