Conte: ‘Maybe I’m not so good’
Antonio Conte looked visibly frustrated after Tottenham’s 1-0 defeat against Burnley and recording Spurs fourth loss in the last five games.
Leeds United vs Tottenham: Line-ups
Leeds United
Tottenham
Expect Spurs to Score Goals
#1
Bielsa admitted after the encounter that the threat of relegation is starting to worry him, as Leeds and their leaky defence now occupy 15th spot in the rankings – just three points above Burnley, who have experienced an upturn in fortunes – having played two games more.
#2
The Whites’ tally of 56 goals conceded represents the worst defensive record in the Premier League this term – with 16 of those strikes being shipped in their last four games – and it is now three successive defeats for this confidence-depleted Leeds side.
#3
Furthermore, three of Leeds’ most recent four Premier League games at Elland Road have ended in defeat as they endeavour to pull off a surprise result against Tottenham, but the visitors’ confidence also took a mammoth hit in midweek.
#4
Conte cut an emotional figure after the defeat – one which leaves eighth-placed Spurs seven points off the Champions League places with two games in hand on Manchester United – and admitted that the club should make “an assessment” on his future. It is extremely difficult to see Spurs cutting their losses on the Premier League and Serie A title-winner, even though he has now lost four of his last five in the top flight with Tottenham, and one can only begin to fear for Conte should his side fail to respond on Saturday.
#5
Furthermore, Spurs have lost on their last two visits to Elland Road – going down 2-1 in the 2012-13 FA Cup before a 3-1 league defeat last term – but they did run out 2-1 winners over Bielsa’s side in North London earlier this season.
DPP Verdict
Leeds cannot welcome Bamford and Phillips back to the team soon enough, but while their two key English stars remain absent, Spurs can give themselves a much-needed injection of confidence on Saturday. Facing the league’s worst defence will be music to the ears of Harry Kane and Son Heung-min, who should help to relieve some of the pressure on Conte’s shoulders at Elland Road.
