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Kieran King

'Pressure is really on!' - Michael Owen fears for Leeds United as he issues Aston Villa prediction

Former Liverpool forward Michael Owen has issued his prediction ahead of Leeds United's game against Aston Villa at Elland Road tonight.

The Whites were beaten 1-0 at Leicester City in Jesse Marsch's first game in charge which extended their winless run to six matches. The result leaves Leeds in 16th, just two points above the bottom three.

This could prove to be a pivotal game in the Whites' pursuit of staying in the Premier League given that they have played more matches than relegation rivals Burnley and Everton.

Meanwhile, Villa will be looking to continue their up-turn in form after beating Brighton & Hove Albion and Southampton in their last two matches. Those victories have moved Gerrard's men to 11th and they are beginning to find their feet following a difficult start to 2022.

The two sides played out an enthralling 3-3 draw in the reverse fixture last month, as Daniel James' brace earned Marcelo Bielsa his final point as Leeds boss. And Owen is expecting another exciting game this time around.

Speaking in his BetVictor column, he said: "Leeds played well against Leicester and had plenty of chances.

"Jesse Marsch must have been happy with what he saw, but they’ve got to take their chances. The pressure is really on Leeds, they need to pick up points soon.

"I thought some of Villa’s football against Southampton was brilliant and Coutinho was the star man.

"He was so dangerous throughout, and Villa could have scored more than the four they did. I expect to see goals at Elland Road, but I think Villa will win it 2-1."

There are three other Premier League matches on Thursday, as Wolverhampton Wanderers host Watford, Southampton face Newcastle United and Chelsea travel to Norwich City.

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