Leeds know they must better Burnley's result if they are to stay in the Premier League next season, as they travel to Brentford
The stakes couldn’t be higher on the Premier League’s final day this Sunday, as Leeds United travel to Brentford needing a win to preserve their top flight status for another year.
Much like Leeds did last season, Thomas Frank’s side have impressed many throughout the course of their maiden Premier League campaign and were never really in danger of being drawn into the relegation battle.
Leeds on the other hand have struggled to escape the same free-for-all for the majority of the season, and a combination of injuries, suspensions and a manager change have led to them needing a win to save themselves from a return to the Championship.
Suspensions and injuries are once again something that Jesse Marsch will have to deal with when they travel to Brentford on Sunday. The Whites picked up their 100th yellow card of the season against Brighton, and both Luke Ayling and Daniel James are suspended for the final game.
As he has been practically all season, Patrick Bamford could be missing again, meaning 17-year-old Joe Gelhardt may get another start up front.
The teenager produced one of the assists of the season for Pascal Struijk’s 92nd minute equaliser last weekend, and more magic would be welcomed by the travelling Leeds crowd. It’s possible that Bamford could be risked from the bench given the importance of the game, but the former Chelsea striker is far from 100%.
Stuart Dallas, Adam Forshaw, Tyler Roberts and Crysensio Summerville are all definitely missing.
As for Brentford, Thomas Frank is without fellow Dane Mathias Jorgensen, as well as defensive partner Ethan Pinnock.
That means Mads Bech Sorensen could keep his place despite an erratic performance against Everton, or the Bees could switch to a back four, with Mads Roerslev coming in.
Saman Ghoddos is out injured and won’t feature, but there’s higher hopes for Frank Onyeka, who could return from an ankle injury.
When the teams met earlier this season, it ended 2-2 at Elland Road, with Bamford netting a late equaliser before injuring himself in the celebration.
That was the only time the two sides have ever met in the top flight, and if Leeds get nothing in the capital, could be the last time for at least another 12 months.
A win for the Whites would save their skin providing Burnley fail to beat Newcastle United at the same time. Anything less and Leeds will return to the Championship.
Brentford take on Leeds United on Sunday, May 22nd. Kick-off is at 4pm.
Though the match previews are over for another season, you can head over to our award-winning podcast – Football Social Daily – where we’ll cover all the latest transfer news and interviews with former professional players.
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