Former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre has claimed that the rivalry between his old side and Leeds United has lost its "spice" ahead of this week's Premier League doubleheader.
Following the 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, Jesse Marsch knows that he has the perfect antidote staring in front of him. A win - or two - against Man United would not only put smiles back on the faces of the club's supporters, it would also kick-start what has been a frustrating season so far.
Old Trafford plays host to the first of the two games taking place in the Premier League this week on Wednesday, with Erik ten Hag's squad travelling to Elland Road for the return fixture on Sunday.
Read more: Jesse Marsch must solve Leeds United conundrum immediately as walls begin to close in
Ahead of the match, Silvestre has shared his thoughts on the rivalry between the two clubs and the former Man United defender thinks the upcoming games have lost their edges compared to years gone by.
“It looks like those days are gone now," Silvestre told bettingexpert when asked about the rivalry between the two clubs. "Time has passed. Leeds had been in the Championship for quite some time.
“Maybe the fans will have a go at each other in the stands but I’m not sure the players know about the history. Maybe they’re a bit young. It’s not a Liverpool or [Manchester] City level rivalry. Geographically they are not far from each other but I don’t think it has the same spice it used to.”
Silvestre also shared his thoughts on the first of the upcoming matches between the two sides, claiming that his former side "should" walk away victorious.
“I wouldn’t point out one element or player from Leeds. I think it’s more of a collective dilemma for Man United here," he added when asked about the threat that Marsch's side pose.
“Given United’s dynamic right now and their position in the league, if they keep their momentum they should beat Leeds. Goals and chance creation have been coming from a lot of different players for Leeds. It’s more of a collective threat.”
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