Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown is the latest commentator to make a prediction for the Championship play-off final between Leeds United and Southampton.
The two sides, who were both relegated from the Premier League together a year ago, will square off at Wembley Stadium tomorrow afternoon, hoping to secure an immediate return to the top flight.
With Premier League quality players on the pitch everywhere, it’s nearly hard to separate the sides going into the game. The matchup between Crysencio Summerville and Kyle Walker-Peters could be crucial.
During the regular season, Leeds finished three points ahead of Southampton. However, the Saints were the only team to achieve a league double over Daniel Farke’s team.
Farke will be hoping that Patrick Bamford’s absence isn’t too noticeable, as the confirmed news of his injury yesterday was the greatest headline from either manager’s press conference.
Keown forecasts the Leeds vs Southampton play-off final.
The Championship play-off final is termed the wealthiest game in football, and Keown is among several commentators who have predicted the outcome.
Ben Parker and David Prutton are among those who believe Leeds will win, with the latter even predicting a penalty shootout. Illan Meslier, the Whites’ goalie, says he’s been doing his study this week.
Simon Jordan, on the other hand, is one of several commentators who believe Southampton will win the play-off final, which might be one of the most fascinating in history.
Speaking on talkSPORT yesterday, Keown joined Parker and Prutton in forecasting Leeds’ promotion to the Premier League.
He stated, “I’m going to go with Leeds simply because Alex (Crook) has gone the other way. I believe they improved slightly in their most recent playoff game versus Norwich.
“They have realised for themselves that they can actually, because they have blown up a bit, Leeds, haven’t they, but I think now they are starting to handle it, and I think they will win this game.”
The winner of Leeds against Southampton will compete for Manchester City’s James McAtee.
Not only will Sunday’s winner be rewarded with Premier League football, but the financial benefits of promotion are also significant.
Whoever comes out on top this summer will have substantially greater discretion in terms of transfer spending.
Parachute payments are reduced by 10% in the second season following relegation, with the EFL’s PSR limits being far tighter than the Premier League.
There have already been suggestions that if they win, both sides will look to sign Manchester City offensive midfielder James McAtee for £20 million.
McAtee is a good young player that City is willing to trade, and with the interested clubs, it only adds another layer to an already exciting final.
