Leeds United know they're heading into an important run of fixtures in February, starting with a trip to Nottingham Forest this weekend. The Whites have not won in the Premier League since their dramatic win over Bournemouth at Elland Road, way back in November.
Jesse Marsch and his side started the campaign in blistering form, beating Chelsea at Elland Road, but then went on a torrid run of form before the World Cup. A minor resurgence before the World Cup in Qatar propelled Marsch's side up the table, but they've not won in the top flight since November 5th, a run of six games.
Steve Cooper's side are just three points above the Whites heading into the game, having played a game more than Leeds. Leeds Live has a taken a look at the best and worst case scenarios this weekend.
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Best case
A win for Leeds this weekend would see them pull away from the relegation zone. The Whites are one point above 17th placed Bournemouth and just three above Southampton at the foot of the table.
Fortunately for Marsch's side, Bournemouth are on the road to high flying Brighton, while fellow strugglers Everton are away at table topping Arsenal. Wolves will host Liverpool at Molineux with a win for Jurgen Klopp's side helping ease some pressure on Marsch if Leeds are able to get the win.
A win for Brentford at Southampton would keep the Saints rock bottom of the league, while also seeing the Whites move clear with a win at the City Ground. If results go their way, Marsch's side could move four points clear of the bottom four and a step closer to mid-table.
They could rise as high as 13th with a win over Forest, leap frogging their hosts this weekend.
Worst case
As things stand, one of nine teams could find themselves in the bottom three come the end of the Premier League campaign. Crystal Palace on 12th are currently six points above the Whites ahead of their trip to Man United and are still within reach, but if the Whites drop points this weekend, it'll be increasingly difficult to close the gap.
Leeds could end the weekend in the bottom three if results go against them. Wins for Bournemouth, Wolves and West Ham would see them leapfrog above the Whites to pile further misery on Marsch.
Fortunately for Leeds, their superior goal difference means they won't drop any lower than 17th, but they could in theory be level on points with Southampton in 20th place. Ahead of back-to-back games against Man United, the Whites really need a win to avoud being drawn into a real scrap at the foot of the table.
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