With Leeds United’s safety in the Premier League virtually guaranteed there is an interesting dynamic hanging over the final nine matches.
While the Whites have the luxury of a free hit in every game from here on out, the majority of the opponents they will be facing have a lot still to play for.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side have attacked at every opportunity since day one of the campaign and that will not change now they are safe, but what may change is the way their opponents approach them.
In some cases, the opposition has favoured defence over attack when facing United. When draws or narrow wins have been a priority, it’s been easy for sides to pack their boxes with bodies and defend diligently.
Time is running out for some clubs and only wins will do. If Leeds continue to chalk up the chances and goals they have done all season, opposition sides have to respond and attack more freely.
This creates space behind their own defences, which plays even further into United’s hands. We have all seen how devastating Leeds can be when they have space to play with.
We already know Manchester City, Liverpool and Manchester United would look to attack Leeds and assert themselves, whenever the fixture is played, though others may need to change tack.
Brighton & Hove Albion are likely to be playing for their own survival from the drop when Leeds visit on May 1.
Graham Potter’s side has played football on the front foot all season, but they will allow even more space for Leeds to play with when they go chasing the winner they need.
Tottenham Hotspur may be above Leeds in the table, but everyone is well aware how defensively-minded Jose Mourinho tends to be with his tactics.
His Spurs team, now out of the Europa League, are scrambling for Champions League football. They are likely to be vulnerable to Leeds on the counter at Elland Road.
Burnley and Southampton should be safe by the time Leeds pay them each a visit in mid-May, while West Bromwich Albion, on the final day, will surely be relegated already.
