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Oscar Haley

Leeds United set for tough October Premier League test following quiet September

When Leeds United lost 5-2 to Brentford away at the start of September, they did not know it would be their last competitive game of the month.

The Whites had their following two games against Nottingham Forest and Manchester United postponed following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Those postponements mean Leeds' next domestic game will take place nearly a month after their clash with Brentford when they host Aston Villa on October 2.

READ MORE: Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher disagree on Aston Villa confidence going into Leeds United clash

Villa signed off before the international break with a morale boosting 1-0 win over Southampton on Friday night. Steven Gerrard's side needed a result at home following their dismal recent form and they managed to secure one in what was a particularly dull affair.

But while some could argue that the result lifted pressure from Villa boss Gerrard, others could claim the international break will halt their momentum following the win against the Saints.

Villa currently sit 14th in the Premier League table. Chances are a refreshed Leeds side, who could welcome back a fully fit Patrick Bamford to their starting XI, should be able to get a positive result against Villa.

The following weekend sees Leeds travel to London to take on Crystal Palace. Last time the Whites faced off against Palace at Selhurst Park, Jesse Marsch's side managed to hang on by the skin of their teeth to claim a 0-0 draw.

Palace have not started the season in the best of form, winning just one of their opening six fixtures. They have won one, drawn three and lost two so far this term and sit in 15th place.

But despite their less than ideal start to the new season, Palace should prove to be a tough opponent. Leeds have the ability to get a result at Selhurst Park but they will need to be at their best to beat Patrick Vieira's side.

Leeds then face off against another London based side the following week in the form of Arsenal. The Gunners are currently riding the crest of a wave and have started the new season as one of the Premier League's form teams. To date, they have won five of their opening six games, with their only defeat coming to Manchester United.

Leeds did not enjoy themselves when they played Arsenal last term, losing 4-1 at Elland Road before falling 2-1 to the Gunners at the Emirates later on in the season.

Mikel Arteta's side are currently playing some scintillating football and despite the home advantage of Elland Road, Leeds will be in for a tough game when they host Arsenal in mid-October.

While it is not their last game of October, Leeds face off against Leicester City on October 20, which will be their fourth game in 18 days.

The Foxes currently sit bottom of the table after a disastrous start to the new season under Brendan Rodgers. They have lost six of their opening seven games so far this term and have the most porous defence in the Premier League.

Out of these four fixtures, it's safe to say Leeds would rather face Leicester first. There's every chance Rodgers might not be in charge of the Foxes come mid to late October.

If he has been relieved of his duties, Leicester could re-group. Ultimately, they do possess quality within their squad. But if their dismal form continues, Leeds could absolutely pick up a result against them.

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