This weekend Leeds United take on Southampton in a 90 minute playoff at Wembley to see who will take the 3rd promotion slot to the English Premier League. Whoever wins the match, will be lining up alongside the biggest clubs in football, in the 2024/25 Premier League.
Yorkshire’s Pride Poised for Premier League Return
This Sunday, Wembley Stadium will host a thrilling Championship play-off final between Leeds United and Southampton. Both teams are vying for an immediate return to the Premier League, a prize that promises not only glory on the field but also significant economic benefits for their respective regions. For Yorkshire, a Leeds United victory would mean millions for the local economy, boosting businesses and tourism in Leeds.
The Road to Wembley
Leeds United secured their place in the play-off final with a commanding 4-0 aggregate victory over Norwich City in the semi-finals. The Whites have demonstrated resilience and quality throughout the season, finishing third in the Championship with 90 points. Southampton, who finished fourth with 87 points, overcame West Bromwich Albion in their semi-final tie, thanks in part to Adam Armstrong’s crucial goals.
Head-to-Head and Season Stats
Leeds and Southampton have met twice this season, with the Saints winning both encounters. However, the play-off final is a different beast altogether, and past results may not hold much weight in such a high-stakes match.
Key Stats:
- Goals Scored: Leeds (85), Southampton (90)
- Goals Conceded: Leeds (43), Southampton (64)
- Passing Accuracy: Leeds (85.76%), Southampton (89.73%)
Leeds’ solid defensive record and potent attack make them a formidable opponent. Their ability to bounce back from losing positions, as evidenced by the 25 points gained from such situations, underscores their tenacity and fighting spirit.
Team News
For Leeds, Patrick Bamford remains a doubt after missing the last four games due to injury. Pascal Struijk will be unavailable, but there is hope that Sam Byram could return after missing the semi-final second leg.
Southampton will be without goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu and playmaker Stuart Armstrong. There are fitness doubts over key strikers Che Adams and Ross Stewart, which could significantly impact their attacking options.
Leeds Predicted XI: Meslier; Gray, Rodon, Ampadu, Firpo; Gruev, Kamara; Gnonto, Rutter, Summerville; Piroe
Southampton Predicted XI: McCarthy; Walker-Peters, Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Stephens; Downes, Smallbone, Aribo, Brooks, Armstrong, Fraser
The Stakes
The economic implications of Leeds United’s promotion cannot be overstated. Premier League status would bring an influx of visitors, increased spending in local businesses, and a boost to the city’s profile on a global stage. This match is not just about football; it’s about the heart of Yorkshire and the prosperity of its people.
Former Southampton defender Francis Benali aptly captured the anticipation: “It’s going to be a game anyone would like to sit and watch. I don’t expect it to be anything other than a game of high quality, full of excitement. We could be in for a real classic.”
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, May 26, 2024
- Kick-off: 3pm BST
- Venue: Wembley Stadium
- TV Coverage: Sky Sports Main Event (live stream available on NOW/Sky Sports app)
Final Thoughts
As Leeds United prepare to take on Southampton in this pivotal play-off final, the hopes of a city and the aspirations of its people rest on their shoulders. A victory for Leeds would not only mark a triumphant return to the Premier League but also lead to some economic rejuvenation for West Yorkshire, with a spotlight falling on the city across the globe. Let’s rally behind the Whites and hope for a glorious win that will light up our beloved region.
Come on, Leeds United! Yorkshire is with you all the way.
