Leeds United have, arguably, their biggest game of the season coming up against third-placed Fulham at Elland Road on Saturday.
The Whites will play host to the Cottagers with a seven-point advantage on the visitors as Marcelo Bielsa’s side are currently joint-top of the Championship standings, with West Bromwich Albion at the summit on goal difference.
The North Yorkshire outfit slipped to a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Cardiff City last Sunday in what was a big blow to them. Although they still do have their own fate in their hands.
The Athletic’s Phil Hay identified one player that Leeds need to be aware of as they continue their push for promotion.
Is Aleksandar Mitrovic Leeds' main threat?
Yes
No
He wrote in his article, “While Leeds hold a substantial points advantage over Fulham, they are superior on almost every statistical level, too. The task for Bielsa is to make those numerical details count. The challenge for Parker is to negate Leeds’ dangerous attributes and create an approach that allows Fulham to play to their own strengths.
“The ace up Parker’s sleeve all season has been Mitrovic, a finisher on a plain which most others strikers in the Championship cannot touch.”
It’s difficult to argue against what Hay has said, due to the stunning campaign that the Serbian striker is having for Fulham.
The 25-year-old has found the net on 23 occasions from 35 starts and has a prolific attacking prowess with an average of 3.9 shots per game and 4.6 aerial duels won (as per Whoscored), which makes it clear where Mitrovic poses the most danger.
The Leeds defender will have to be in top form to keep the 6ft 2′ forward quiet. If they manage to achieve this, it will be a huge statement sent to the sides around them.