Paul Merson has backed Arsenal to demolish Leeds United 4-1 during their Premier League clash at The Emirates on Saturday afternoon.
Javi Gracia’s side head to North London (1 April) looking to make it build on their impressive 4-2 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
However, Merson believes the trip to face Mikel Arteta’s side will be a bridge too far for Gracia’s men.
“If City win their match against Liverpool, Arsenal have to win this game. They’ve been absolutely outstanding this season,” said Merson (Sportkeeda predictions, 30 March).
“Leeds are not going to hold back and play ten men behind the ball. They’re going to have a go and I expect them to score a goal, but I don’t think they’ll keep it tight at the back.
“Arsenal are at the top of the league because everyone has been excellent. When one player doesn’t have a good game, another player steps up. They’ve been brilliant as a team and should be able to win this game. Arsenal 4-1 Leeds United.”
Tough task
This is an extremely tough test for Leeds and, realistically, a point would be a superb result. Arsenal have been dismissive of the league’s lesser teams, especially at home.
From Leeds’ perspective, they will be trying to keep the score at 0-0 for as long as possible. Falling behind early could well be a hammer blow. The head coach will also have one eye firmly on the upcoming fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace.
Home games will be absolutely vital between now and the end of the season and if Gracia’s men can make the most of their outings at Elland Road, they stand a great chance of avoiding the drop.
Leeds do have a number of injury concerns which won’t help their cause heading into the weekend. Tyler Adams has undergone surgery on a hamstring issue and Willy Gnonto is a doubt after sustaining an injury on international duty
If the Italian is available he could provide the Whites with an excellent option on the counterattack against the league leaders.
