The end of this chapter or the great escape?
After 37 matches, 295 days and 121 goals we will finally get an answer to the question: do Leeds United deserve to remain in the Premier League? Twelve months ago we went to Brentford with a similar question and little hope, but got a spectacular surprise.
With two other matches needing to go United’s way and next to nothing in recent form to suggest they can beat Tottenham Hotspur, this feels like an even slimmer hope. It’s either going to be the sad, but expected confirmation of what we have known for weeks or one of the greatest escapes the top flight has seen.
The supporters’ buzz
As Sam Allardyce said himself on Friday, he will not need to keep an eye on events at Goodison Park or King Power Stadium. The Elland Road crowd will transmit what is going on elsewhere from the other 4.30pm kick-offs.
READ MORE: Andrea Radrizzani's take on last possible Leeds United clash with hundreds of millions at stake
If Leeds can hold up their end of the bargain and perhaps take an early lead, it will really focus minds in the ground on what could be going on elsewhere. Will the pressure show at Everton or Leicester City?
The directors’ box
So much of the next few days and weeks at Elland Road will be dominated by those seating here on Sunday. We know Angus Kinnear will be present, but will Andrea Radrizzani show for what could be his final game as majority shareholder?
Will 49ers Enterprises, so keen to take control, have Paraag Marathe or Collin Meador in place to represent them on the last day? If relegation is confirmed, what message will the crowd send to the club’s top brass?
Final farewells
Beneath the top-line impact of what Sunday’s result means for the Whites there is the likelihood this is the last time a number of these players could be appearing at Elland Road. Whether the club is relegated or not, there needs to be an overhaul of this roster to ensure better fortunes in 2023/24.
Adam Forshaw and Joel Robles are the only names out of contract this summer, while the likes of Illan Meslier, Tyler Adams and Luis Sinisterra may have already played their last games in LS11. Robin Koch, Jack Harrison, Rodrigo and Weston McKennie could be among those playing for the last time in white if they are relegated.
Who leads the frontline?
Rodrigo was in training from Friday, which will have emboldened Allardyce in using the Spain international this afternoon. He even said Patrick Bamford was yet to be ruled out, but will he stick his hand up and play patched up?
READ NEXT:
Leeds United line-ups vs Tottenham as Kristensen, Struijk and McKennie are axed for miracle push
49ers Enterprises should watch QSI-Leeds United ploy closely after Radrizzani twist
Leeds United confirm first pre-season friendly of the summer with Scandinavian trip
Stuart Webber asked about Leeds United role replacing Victor Orta at Elland Road
Leeds United given 52-day cut-off for root-and-branch squad rebuild in worst-case scenario
