AliousLeeds United are eager to reclaim their spot at the top of the Championship table after being overtaken by Sheffield United over the weekend. As they prepare to face Sunderland on Monday, Daniel Farke’s squad is determined to make a statement.
Sunderland, meanwhile, are still clinging to hopes of automatic promotion, but they sit seven points behind second-placed Leeds and know that a win at Elland Road is crucial to keeping their ambitions alive. However, former Leeds star Dominic Matteo believes the Black Cats should be more concerned about the upcoming clash than the Whites.
Leeds have been an attacking force this season, leading the Championship with 66 goals, and Matteo insists no team has managed to truly contain them. Speaking on LUTV, he praised Leeds’ dominant performances and suggested Sunderland should be wary of what awaits them at Elland Road.
“No one has been able to handle our style of play because our players are just that good,” Matteo said. “Sunderland have talent and will come with a game plan like every other team, but with our home crowd and the squad we have, there’s nothing for us to fear—it’s them who should be worried.”
Despite Leeds’ confidence, Matteo stressed the importance of staying focused and not underestimating Sunderland. “We can’t afford to be arrogant. We have to make sure we perform,” he cautioned. “They’ll try to come at us, but if we get an early goal, it changes everything.”
Matteo also pointed out that Leeds’ style of play presents a real challenge for Sunderland. He noted that earlier in the season, Leeds struggled to capitalize on chances, but they’ve since found their rhythm, making them even more dangerous.
“At one point, we weren’t scoring early, but now we are, and that puts Sunderland in a tough spot. We’re playing with confidence, and while they haven’t lost many games, this matchup has all the makings of a top game,” he added.
A win for Leeds would be a huge boost heading into their next crucial fixture against Sheffield United. Matteo believes a victory on Monday would give the Whites momentum at a key point in the season.
When these two sides last met in October, Sunderland salvaged a dramatic 2-2 draw with a stoppage-time equalizer. This time, Leeds will be looking to ensure history doesn’t repeat itself as they push to regain their place at the top.
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