Dominic Matteo claims Whites 'might just survive'
Leeds United are in a relegation shootout with Burnley on the final day of the season, as both clubs scramble to secure their Premier League status. But the Whites are at a disadvantage despite going into the games on Sunday equal on points with Burnley, their goal difference is vastly inferior and thus means they have to better the Clarets' results on the final day.
Former Leeds captain, Dominic Matteo has been in battles for survival at Elland Road himself. In 2002/03, he was part of the side which stayed up after a late-season revival, as well as the team which was relegated the following season. Speaking to the Mirror, he backed his old club to do enough against Brentford in order to stay up:
"I never thought I would be relegated at Leeds because I felt we had a strong enough team,” he said. “But that means nothing, we know how brutal the Premier League is. Our experience showed that if you take your foot off the pedal in the Premier League, it just punishes you.
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"We’ve seen that this season with Leeds and it’s been a difficult watch. When we stayed up in 2003, we just found a way to win and that’s what Leeds have got to do on Sunday, just find a way. I don’t know how, but they’ve got to find a way. I said at the start of the season that Burnley might go down and I’m sticking by that. It’s a difficult situation, but I think Leeds might just survive."
Leeds United & Brentford rivalry explored ahead of final day
Leeds' crucial match on the final day comes against a club who the Whites have built up something of a modern rivalry with. The Whites and the Bees were both regularly competing at the top of the Championship in recent years, with Leeds winning promotion in 20/21 and Brentford following them to the Premier League the following season.
A low point for Leeds came when their automatic promotion hopes ended at Griffin Park in 18/19. Go here for a deeper look at the reasons behind the rivalry.
Predicted line-up for crucial match
When it comes to the starting XI for the final match, Jesse Marsch is left with few decisions to make, such is the lack of depth the Whites have available. Leeds United writer, Beren Cross has suggested a big call should be made by starting young centre back Charlie Cresswell.
The youngster would bring more aerial presence at set-pieces. Beren would also gamble on starting Patrick Bamford, even if not fully fit. Read on for his full team.
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