Paul Merson and Chris Sutton disagree on outcome of 'huge' Sunderland clash vs Leeds United
Sunderland play Leeds United in the Premier League on Tuesday.
Paul Merson and Chris Sutton have delivered differing predictions for Sunderland’s Premier League clash against Leeds United on Tuesday evening, with the former believing that the Black Cats will secure a point in an entertaining draw, and the latter opting for a narrow home victory at Elland Road.
Regis Le Bris’ side are winless in their last four top flight outings, but did at least end their losing streak with a spirited 1-1 draw against Bournemouth at the weekend. For their part, Daniel Farke’s men were beaten 1-0 by title-chasing Manchester City in Saturday’s evening kick-off, and find themselves six points clear of the relegation zone with 10 matches left to play.
But in their respective forecasts, both Merson and Sutton have backed the hosts to secure a positive result when Sunderland make the trip to Yorkshire.
What has Paul Merson said about Leeds United vs Sunderland?
Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson said: “I was quite impressed by Sunderland in their draw with Bournemouth. I thought they did well in that game. However, an away trip to Leeds is always a challenge for any team in this division.
“This is a huge game for Leeds. After this, they face Crystal Palace away, Brentford at home and Manchester United away. But they held their own against Manchester City even though they lost that game.
“Sunderland won't get relegated or compete for a European spot this season. In that case, I expect them to go all out at teams from now until the end of the season. If they have a go at Leeds, this will become an open and entertaining game. Leeds are playing well even when they're losing games. I don't expect them to get relegated but a draw here.” Merson has predicted a 2-2 draw.
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What has Chris Sutton said about Leeds United vs Sunderland?
Meanwhile, speaking to BBC Sport, Sutton has opted for a 1-0 Leeds win, stating: “This is a big game for Leeds, who are six points above the relegation zone with 10 games to go, but have still got work to do.
“I've been impressed by Daniel Farke's side recently, but they still rely a lot on their home form - they have picked up 22 points from 14 games at Elland Road compared to nine from 14 on the road - so it feels like they need to win this.
“Sunderland have not won in four league games but I'm not reading too much into that - Granit Xhaka's return from injury made a difference against Bournemouth on Saturday, and a draw was a good result for them. This is going to be close but Leeds like playing under the lights - they pushed Manchester City all the way on Saturday evening, and this time I think it is them who will edge it.”
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