Pundit Watch

2 things Chris Sutton has had to say about Leeds United FA cup clash with Fulham

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Fulham host Leeds United in the FA Cup this evening with both sides eyeing up a potential trip to Wembley if they can make it through the next two rounds.

Craven Cottage is the setting for an all Premier League clash this evening in the FA Cup fifth round as Leeds have yet again been drawn away from home, facing Fulham today.

Marco Silva’s side present a real test for Leeds after two previous outings against lower league opposition prior – a replay win against Cardiff City in round three, and a comfortable win away at Accrington Stanley in round four.

It’s a clash that could go either way with changes expected to Silva’s Europe-chasing side and Gracia’s relegation-fighting Leeds.

Here, we look at what the pundits have had to say as they predict this evening’s clash in London…

What has Chris Sutton predicted?

Leeds are buoyed off the back of their win at Southampton, but BBC pundit Chris Sutton believes that Leeds not being out of the woods in the league means that they should be focusing on that.

As he issued his prediction of a 2-0 home win for the Cottagers, he had this to say:

“Leeds got the victory they had been waiting for on Saturday, in Javi Gracia’s first game in charge.

“Avoiding relegation is clearly going to be Gracia’s priority from here – they are away at Chelsea on Saturday in their next league match and they will see that as being winnable.

Who is going through tonight?

Leeds

Leeds

Fulham

Fulham

Will the sides make changes?

Given the difference between Fulham and Leeds this season in the league, one side has far less pressure in the league right now.

The Cottagers could justify going strong to try to go on a cup run, while Leeds need results in the league more importantly.

Sutton had this to say on how the two sides could line up:

“So, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Gracia rest some of his players and, on that basis, you have to fancy Fulham to progress.

“It doesn’t always work out as simply as that, of course, but Fulham do not have to worry about going down so they can view the FA Cup differently. I’m expecting them to give this a bit more of a go, and they certainly should do.”

Quiz: Can you remember the last 15 clubs to knock Leeds United out of the FA Cup ahead of Fulham clash?

1 of 15

2022 (3rd round)

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Leeds United season ticket holder since 2013/14, currently situated in the middle of the FA5 noise. From Pablo Hernandez to 5-1 drubbings, I've seen it all at Elland Road.