Well, this is it. Leeds United enter what could be their final 3 games in the Championship. With survival still a massive possibility it’s up to Dennis Wise’s men to really show their talent. COME ON!
Manager Quotes
Leeds boss Dennis Wise has told of his players confidence as they go into the final stages of the relegation dogfight:
‘The lads are very relaxed,’ said the boss. ‘They’ve done very well because they’ve been under immense pressure.
‘A lot of things have been said about us all, but they’ve coped with it and they’ll carry on.
‘We were a bit adrift but we’ve caught teams up – that’s what pressure is about. But they’ve coped with it and coped with it very well.’
Southampton manager George Burley has ensured the clubs fans that they are ready to soak up any pressure that Leeds will throw at them.
‘We’ve got pressure because we need to win three games but I’d rather have this pressure than Leeds United who are fighting to stay in the division,’ he said.
‘Last season there was no pressure because we weren’t anywhere near the top six. I’d rather be where we are now than last season, but there’s always different types of pressure and we know we’ll have to cope with it, be nice and positive against Leeds and I’m sure the fans will play a big part.
‘It’s going to be very competitive and I’m sure it will be a little bit nervy, but there’s no doubt that 25,000 or 26,000 right behind the team will make a big difference.’
Southampton Team News:
Southampton have been hit by a season-ending injury to on-loan striker Marek Saganowski. A useful boost for Leeds considering the Troyes striker has scored 10 in 10 games for the Saints. Grzegorz Rasiak looks set to replace Saganowski.
Gareth Bale has a torn calf so sits out (no offence Gaz but WOOHOO!). Ostlund and Claus Lundekvam are also set to miss out.
Player to watch: Grzegorz Rasiak
This man comes back into the side with a major point to prove. Rasiak is a dangerous striker, Leeds need to be on their guard.
Leeds United Team News:
Alan Thompson will have a late fitness test to work out whether his hamstring strain will keep him out. Apart from that nothing new, ex-captain Douglas continues his end of season break a few games early.
Player to watch: The Entire Team
They’ve got a big job to do, lets hope they do it.
Useless Facts
Southampton is the birthplace of comedian Benny Hill.
Benny Hill’s work was very much enjoyed by one Michael Jackson, who visited Hill as he recovered from a Heart Attack in 1992.
There are currently rumours flying around that Michael Jackson may be making a comeback in 2007 with collaboration with will.i.am, who is part of the Black Eyed Peas.
The Black Eyed Peas also have Fergie as one of their members, who unlike the ex-Royal version is a rather lovely young lady.
Ref Watch:
The referee for the game is L MASON.
Mr Mason sent off the Macclesfield goalkeeper earlier this season as Chelsea destroyed Paul Ince’s men in the 6-1 F.A. Cup round 3 game.
Match Prediction:
2-1 Leeds…we’re staying up, I know it.
Next Up
After this one, Leeds play their final home game of the season against Ipswich on the 28th April.