Julen Lopetegui has urged his Wolverhampton Wanderers players to focus ahead of a potential six-pointer with Leeds United. A patchy run of form has resulted in Wolves losing three of their last five games while beating Champions League contenders Tottenham Hotspur.
Leeds also head into the clash at Molineux in desperate need of a win. Just one victory in 13 has plunged the Whites into 19th - with relegation to the Championship a stark possibility.
On a positive note, four points is all that separates the two sides when the first whistle goes on Saturday. One of the tightest relegation battles in recent memory means just five points separate Southampton in 20th and 12th-placed Crystal Palace.
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Putting a run of form together is essential for both clubs and Lopetegui has ordered his players to “be ready” for the Leeds test. He told reporters: “I think the match has the same importance for Leeds as it does for us. Each match is going to be very important. Each match is a chance to achieve three points.
“It is difficult because all the teams (we play) are going to be ready. Leeds have a very good squad with very good players and an experienced coach in England.
“We anticipate a tough match - we have to be ready. It is different times, different teams, different leagues (on previous clashes against Javi Gracia). We try to improve step by step, match by match, and now we have the focus.
“The next match with Leeds is important. We face this match with a big demand because it is going to be demanding. We have to be ready.”
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