Paul Merson delivers score prediction for ‘humongous’ Sunderland clash vs Leeds United

Paul Merson delivers score prediction for ‘humongous’ Sunderland clash vs Leeds United

Paul Merson has tipped Sunderland to come out on top in what he has described as a “huge” Premier League showdown against Leeds United on Sunday afternoon.

The Black Cats welcome Daniel Farke’s side to the Stadium of Light for the first time since both clubs were competing in the Championship last season.

Sunderland will be aiming to stretch their unbeaten run to three matches, having recently claimed derby bragging rights against Newcastle United before grinding out a goalless draw away at Brighton & Hove Albion.

Leeds, meanwhile, arrive on Wearside in strong form of their own. The Whites are unbeaten in four matches, having followed up draws against Liverpool and Brentford with impressive victories over Chelsea and Crystal Palace.

That run has helped them build a six-point cushion above the relegation zone after a slow start to the campaign.

A major reason for Leeds’ resurgence has been the red-hot form of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The summer signing has struck six times in his last five appearances, giving Farke’s side a much-needed cutting edge in attack.

Despite acknowledging the striker’s impact, Merson still believes Sunderland will have enough to edge the contest.

What did Paul Merson say about Sunderland vs Leeds United?

Writing in his weekly Sportskeeda column, Merson said:
“This is a massive game for both teams. Leeds are flying at the moment. It’s amazing how quickly things can change in football. Not long ago they were 2-0 down at Manchester City and it looked like their season was slipping away.

“But now, if they keep this form up, I don’t see why they can’t stay up. We all know how good Dominic Calvert-Lewin is. If he stays fit, Leeds always have a chance.

“Everton must be kicking themselves for letting him go. He’s scoring regularly now. Imagine him up front for Everton with Jack Grealish, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye behind him — that would’ve been some attack.

“Sunderland are missing several key players because of AFCON, but I watched them last weekend and thought they did really well not to lose. I think they’ll get back to winning ways here.”

Merson has predicted a 2-1 victory for the home side.

What else has been said about Sunderland vs Leeds United?

Merson isn’t alone in backing Sunderland, with both Jeff Stelling and Chris Sutton also tipping the Black Cats to collect all three points. Each has gone for a narrow 1-0 home win.

Stelling said:
“Sunday at two o’clock, Sunderland host Leeds. The Stadium of Light has become a real fortress, while Leeds’ away form is still a concern.

“Sunderland are missing several players due to AFCON, but the atmosphere will be electric — two of the loudest fanbases in the Premier League. I think it’ll be tight, but one goal should settle it. Sunderland 1-0 Leeds.”