Leeds United will be looking to get back to winning ways when they host Everton at Elland Road this evening. The Whites suffered their first defeat of the season at Brighton on Saturday but can put that defeat swiftly behind them with three points against the Toffees.
Frank Lampard’s side come into tonight’s game still searching for their first win of the new campaign having picked up just two points so far. Everton were denied all three points in their last game at Brentford after a late equaliser from Vitaly Janelt.
FiveThirtyEight, a website that uses data to predict the outcome of sporting events, believes Leeds are the favourites heading into this evening’s game. They forecast a 45% chance of Leeds winning in comparison to 30% for Everton.
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Pundits from across the media have also been giving their predictions for the match and LeedsLive have rounded them up.
Chris Sutton – BBC Sport
Chris Sutton has backed Leeds United to return to winning ways in his latest BBC Sport predictions. He said: “I feel Leeds will bounce back from the loss at the weekend to Brighton. They were one of my tips for relegation but they were so good when they beat Chelsea, playing with such intensity and were in the game against Brighton and I think Jesse Marsch will have them raring to bounce back.
“As for Everton, I am just amazed they never replaced Richarlison. They were unlucky with Dominic Calvert-Lewin's injury and then have cobbled a team together. Neal Maupay has come in now from Brighton and they got a good point against Brentford but I think they will lose this one.”
Prediction: Leeds 2-0 Everton
Paul Merson – Sportskeeda
In his latest Sportskeeda column, Paul Merson has also predicted Leeds to earn all three points. He said: “Jesse Marsch said after the game against Brighton that his players were freestyling on the pitch and sort of deviated from the game plan - which is a worrying sign as a manager.
“This is a big game for both teams, I fancy Leeds to return to winning ways with a 2-0 win after a disappointing loss last time around. If Everton lose again and reluctantly agree to sell Anthony Gordon to Chelsea, Frank Lampard and co could be in a lot of trouble this season.”
Prediction: Leeds 2-0 Everton
Mark Lawrenson – Paddy Power
To make it a full house, Paddy Power’s Mark Lawrenson is backing Leeds. He said: “Everton could take something from the Brentford game – and not just the point – because of the way they held on.
“Everyone knows their problems are up front though. Calvert-Lewin’s unavailable and they’re desperately trying to get a striker in. They’ve got Neal Maupay in now, who could be a decent signing, but they still need more I think.
“Leeds are at home here and will pile the pressure on Everton. I can see them winning 2-0. That’d represent a really good start to the season for them despite the loss at the weekend.”
Prediction: Leeds 2-0 Everton
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