Leeds United are back on home turf on Saturday afternoon, taking on Southampton in this Premier League clash (3pm).
Both teams come into the match under the guidance of a fresh face, with Javi Gracia appointed head coach of the Whites earlier this week, whilst Ruben Selles has been appointed First Team Manager of the Saints, also this week.
The match is a significant one for both sides in terms of the league standings. They currently sit next to one another, just a point apart, at the wrong end of the table. A win for either side could see them lifted out of the relegation places - depending on results elsewhere.
When the teams met earlier in the season at St Mary’s, Leeds raced into a two-goal lead courtesy of a Rodrigo double. However, the hosts hit back on that occasion, meaning each side had to settle for a point from an entertaining 2-2 draw.
Rodrigo remains top-scorer for Leeds but is currently out injured. Top-scorer for the visitors this weekend is James Ward-Prowse. The Southampton skipper is well-known for his ability from free-kick situations, but he also offers much more to his than just that - so is their clear one to watch.
From the five matches Selles’ side have won this season, four of them have been away from home. Saints have taken 12 of their overall 18 points on the road, whilst Leeds have secured 13 points at home up to now.
Each team has 15 matches left to play of their respective Premier League campaigns, meaning 45 points are left on offer, as they aim to climb the table and away from trouble.
The match has not been selected for live television coverage within the UK. For those not attending the game, you can stay right here on leedsunited.com to follow live updates throughout the 90 minutes, or listen to uninterrupted commentary on LUTV!
A stat ahead of the match:
What has Javi Gracia said, ahead of the match?
“I felt all of them [the players] are really focused on the game and with a high commitment and looking forward to the moment, to play in Elland Road and show our supporters they want to improve the situation.”
Head to head:
Leeds: 47
Draws: 22
Saints: 28
League position:
Leeds: 19th
Saints: 20th
A memorable moment:
Premier League top scorer:
Leeds: Rodrigo (10)
Saints: James Ward-Prowse (6)
Officials:
Referee - Peter Bankes
Assistant Referee - Edward Smart
Assistant Referee - Ian Hussin
Fourth Official - Jeremy Simpson
Video Assistant Referee - Simon Hooper
How to watch:
The match has not been selected for live television coverage within the UK. For those not attending the game, you can stay right here on leedsunited.com to follow live updates throughout the 90 minutes, or listen to uninterrupted commentary on LUTV!
