Leeds United will host West Ham United at Elland Road in the Premier League. The Whites are just one point away from the relegation zone and they need to rally their form. On the other hand, West Ham had a good start to the season. Though they lost to Manchester United in their previous match, can Marcelo Bielsa’s men prevail against the Hammers?
Leeds United currently sit 17th with three draws, two losses and zero wins. Saint-Maximin’s equalizer against the Whites stopped them from claiming their first victory of the season. Though the Whites showcased some attacking aggression they failed to overcome the Magpies. Leeds took on Fulham in the EFL Cup and they came out on top on penalties. Bamford and Ayling missed out on their victory against Fulham through injury. Both players are currently undergoing rehabilitation and could be in contention for their Premier League clash against the Hammers.
Leeds currently occupy 11th position both in terms of xG and xG per 90, while their opponents are currently third in terms of xG and xG per 90.
The Hammers on the other hand stand at a better place as compared to their opponents. They currently stand at eighth in the Premier League with two wins, two draws and one loss. As a team, they look strong and composed. The Hammers are set to play against Manchester United in the EFL Cup midweek. David Moyes will have to decide on whether to rest his star man Michail Antonio.
Looking at the defensive metric, Leeds United PPDA puts them in third spot in the league which suggests that they apply defensive pressure effectively. Although they have failed to stop the opposition from scoring, their average challenge intensity places them in the top spot in the league. The White’s intense style of play requires the players to swarm the opposition players as soon as they lose possession.
Although West Ham are lagging behind in terms of PPDA and average challenge intensity, their forwards have made sure that they stay on top of their opponents.
Michail Antonio’s brilliant form could hand the Hammers a huge advantage in this game. Declan Rice will have his hands full in coping with the intensity of the Leeds United midfielders. Luke Ayling’s absence could prove to be a huge boon for David Moye’s men. Although West Ham are set to play Manchester United in the EFL Cup, bearing any injuries they should still come out on top in the fixture at Elland Road.
