If Leeds didn't need anymore of an incentive to beat Leicester City on Thursday, then Southampton's victory against AFC Bournemouth should provide them with a much-needed kick up the backside.
Che Adams's ninth-minute opener proved enough to earn Southampton a first victory since August and end a five-match winless run (L4, D1) on Wednesday. As a result of their win on the South Coast, Saints climbed out of the relegation zone and jumped above Leeds in the table.
It also means that Leeds will head to the King Power Stadium level on points with Wolves in 18th. It may be worth pointing out that Leeds have two games in hand on Wolves and Nottingham Forest, but a defeat would increase concerns.
Leeds last tasted victory in August and have gone six league matches without a win - losing four in the process. Their trip to the East Midlands has been described by many as a 'must-win' and with those below them tightening the gap, that sentiment isn't far from the truth.
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Leicester will have a point to prove themselves after recording their worst start to a top-flight season since 1983/84. The Foxes currently sit at the foot of the table on five points but could climb to within one-point of Leeds with a win.
Thursday evening provides Leeds with an optimum chance to create breathing space between themselves and the trailing pack. That will be the primary aim for Jesse Marsch before the Premier League pauses for this winter's World Cup in Qatar next month.
Leeds will round off a gruelling fixture schedule with trips to Liverpool and Tottenham, but they can be confident of earning a result against Fulham and Bournemouth respectively at Elland Road.
Five to nine points against Leicester, Fulham and Bournemouth would form a far more positive picture, especially with the Boxing Day visit of Manchester City awaiting them after the World Cup.
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