PREVIEW: Leeds to test Arsenal credentials in pivotal Premier League encounter | OneFootball

Table-toppers Arsenal will travel to Elland Road this weekend as they look to bounce back from a 3-2 home defeat to Manchester United last time out in the Premier League.

Leeds’ last league outing came at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, where they earned a 1–1 draw with Everton after Thierno Barry cancelled out James Justin’s early opener.

When these two sides met earlier in the season, it proved to be a one-sided affair as Arsenal ran out emphatic 5–0 winners at the Emirates Stadium.

Goals from Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka and Victor Gyökeres sealed a dominant victory, while the match also marked the competitive debut of young Max Dowman for the North London side.

Since that defeat, Daniel Farke’s men have developed into a team that looks increasingly capable of securing Premier League survival.

Leeds currently sit six points clear of the relegation zone, following a superb upturn in form since the start of December. In that period, the Whites have lost just one of their last ten league matches.

That run has included impressive draws against Liverpool and Manchester United, as well as a statement 3–1 victory over Chelsea at Elland Road, which kick-started their resurgence.

Summer signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been a key figure in Leeds’ revival. The former England international has contributed nine league goals in 21 appearances this season, with seven of those coming across a remarkable run of consecutive games.

During that spell, “DCL” found the net against Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Brentford and Sunderland, before scoring a brace against Crystal Palace.

For Arsenal, Declan Rice has been the standout performer this campaign. The midfielder has created an impressive 41 chances so far, a tally boosted by his role as the side’s primary corner taker – an area where the Gunners have thrived, often with Gabriel rising highest to convert from set-pieces.

However, Rice’s influence extends well beyond his attacking output. The 27-year-old averages just under two successful tackles per 90 minutes, along with more than five recoveries, underlining his importance in regaining possession and driving Arsenal forward.

Arsenal also maintained their perfect record in the Champions League league phase in midweek, securing a 3–2 victory over Kairat Almaty in a contest that was more comfortable than the scoreline suggests. Kai Havertz marked his return from injury with a goal inside 15 minutes before being withdrawn at half-time.

Leeds will be without Felix Nmecha for this fixture after the midfielder felt a hamstring issue ahead of Monday’s draw with Everton. Farke confirmed the injury is “not a major issue” and expects him to be available for next week’s clash with Nottingham Forest.

The match takes place at Elland Road on Saturday, January 31st, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm.