Chris Sutton has tipped Leeds United to get 2023 off to a flyer by beating West Ham. The first game of the new year sees two out-of-form sides go head-to-head at Elland Road.
Leeds are without a win in four games across all competitions while the Hammers have lost five consecutive Premier League fixtures. A much-improved performance saw Jesse Marsch’s side grind out a hard-fought 0-0 draw against high-flying Newcastle United on New Year’s Eve.
That result was the Whites' first clean sheet in nine matches and opened up a three-point cushion on the bottom three. Unlikely pre-season relegation candidates West Ham are now in the dogfight, sitting above the drop zone on goal difference.
Read more: Leeds United answer defensive questions in Newcastle draw but Ayling and Harrison let chances slip
Both sides are desperate for a win and former Blackburn Rovers and Celtic striker Sutton has backed Jesse Marsch to deliver exactly that. He told BBC Sport : “Leeds gave Newcastle a decent game last time out and defended well to get a draw.
“Ordinarily, I would say the way they play suits West Ham, but, whatever is wrong with the Hammers, I don’t see it improving here. David Moyes’ side have lost their past five Premier League games while only scoring twice and that lack of goals is probably their biggest problem.”
Sutton's prediction: Leeds United 2-1 West Ham United
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