Tonight, Leeds United host Liverpool at Elland Road, with both teams looking for points that could be crucial at either end of the Premier League table
The game will be televised live on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, and Leeds will be looking to improve on their 16th-placed position in the table following the conclusion of the other fixtures this weekend, after suffering a 5-1 thrashing at the hands of fellow strugglers Crystal Palace in their previous game.
At this point in the season, every point counts for Javi Gracia’s side as they fight for survival. Leeds are only six points above the relegation zone and two points above bottom club Southampton.
Despite the game’s apparent difficulty, Gracia will take heart from the fact that Liverpool has only three away wins in the league this season from 15 games played, with only 14 goals scored in that time.
Here, we look at TWO things Gracia said about today’s game against Liverpool during his pre-match press conference last week.
Preparation for a difficult opponent
Gracia was full of praise for Jurgen Klopp, who has transformed Liverpool into one of Europe’s most feared teams in recent years, saying: “Liverpool are very dangerous, they are well organized, they know the way they play, and it’s difficult to play against them.”
Leeds‘ manager is well aware of the importance of points at this stage of the season, saying: “The importance of the games left is crucial for us.” I pay close attention to the significance of the points.”
He believes that his team is well prepared for the game, regardless of who they are playing, and that the preparation could make all the difference on the night, he added: “All of them have done hard work this week and paid attention to the details.” All of these factors contribute to the difference. They’ve done a good job this week.”
Gracia understands the importance of playing Liverpool, saying, “For us, this game is crucial.” In this game, we must give everything we have. It will be extremely difficult.”
Leeds have games against Fulham, Leicester City, and Bournemouth on the horizon, but the game against Liverpool, despite its difficulty, is still an opportunity for his team. “We know how difficult this game against Liverpool will be,” Gracia added. We don’t have time to consider whether it’s better or worse. We must play, give our all, and score points.”
Gracia did not appear concerned, but did point out that there could be more injury issues within his squad, making the game against Liverpool more difficult. “We have some players with some different issues, and some of them have not trained,” he said. We must evaluate and decide on them in the coming days.”
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