Leeds v Fulham @ Elland Road
Saturday December 13 @ 3:00pm
Manager Kit Symons is optimistic ahead of Fulham’s clash with Leeds United tomorrow despite his side’s 5-0 thrashing by Watford last week.
Fulham have been struggling recently, losing two of their past three league games, though Leeds have an identical record.
And Symons understands the nature of the Championship and hopes his team can rediscover their form against United.
“We’ve suffered defeats before and always gone and done well in the next game, so we need to make sure that maintains,” he said.
“The Championship is so open that anyone can literally beat anyone on any given day.”
Leeds are currently two places and a point better off than Fulham in the table and former Welsh International Symons knows what a difficult task they face if they hope to beat them.
He said: “They’ve got some really bright young players, some real good talent there, so they try and play football and pass it around really nicely.
“It’s going to be a tough game. It’s such a tough, honest league – everyone you come against, you’ve got to be at it and play well to get a result.”
The game will also see the return of Ross McCormack to Elland Road following his summer move to Fulham for £11 million.
Symons said: “I can only really talk about since I’ve taken over, when he’s done excellent for us, he’s done really well.
“Going back to your old club, I think players look forward to it. All of us as a group are looking forward to going there. It’s always a real lively atmosphere there, it’s a great football stadium.”
Gabor Kiraly will replace the suspended Marcus Bettinelli in goal, but defenders Fernando Amorebieta (knee) and Tim Hoogland (pelvis) are still sidelined.
There is some more positive news as Sean Kavanagh is now back in full training following his injury, but he will play for the Under-21s against Tottenham on Saturday to build up his match fitness.
Star man: Hugo Rodallega – the Columbian has been in good form this season scoring eight goals in 16 appearances.
Danger man: Adryan – the Brazilian Under-20 international adds a creative spark to Leeds’ midfield and has contributed two assists this season.
Last meeting: Fulham 2–0 Leeds, 13 March, 2004 (Premier League)
With thanks to Fulham FC, via Youtube
