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Danny Bloomer

How the relegation picture could change as Leeds United and Everton prepare for midweek matches

Leeds United face another pivotal match in their battle to beat the drop as they host Chelsea on Wednesday night. With Burnley not in action until Sunday, the Whites could heap the pressure on their relegation rivals if they secure all three points.

Following Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at Arsenal, and Everton’s win at Leicester City, Leeds slid into the bottom three for the first time since October. With just three matches of the run-in remaining, Jesse Marsch’s side know that a result of some kind is a must due to their far inferior goal difference.

Everton, the other side fighting for survival, are also in action on Wednesday night when they make the trip to already relegated Watford. Given that the Toffees have played a game less than both Leeds and Burnley, a win at Vicarage Road would put themselves within touching distance of survival.

READ MORE: Everton boss Frank Lampard sends warning to players amid Leeds United relegation battle

So with that in mind, here is a look at how the relegation picture could change after these two fixtures.

Best-case scenario

If Leeds are able to defy the odds and secure all three points against Chelsea, a win could move them up to the lofty heights of 16th in the Premier League. That is of course, if Everton fail to win at Watford.

Leeds would move onto 37 points with a win, moving three clear of Burnley, who would still have a game in hand at Aston Villa next week. The pressure would then all be back on Everton if they are defeated, as it would be them who drop into 17th and become the side that Burnley are intent on catching.

Worst-case

Should Leeds come away with nothing against Chelsea on Wednesday evening, then they would become heavily reliant on results elsewhere going in their favour. Jesse Marsch’s side would still be behind Burnley on goal difference, but the Clarets will have played a game less, meaning it is well and truly in their hands.

And to rub salt into the wounds, an Everton win would move them four points ahead of Leeds, still with a game in hand. That would almost certainly guarantee them survival, meaning the fight to beat the drop would now come down to just two teams.

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