‘This is where we live or die’: Sam Allardyce has revealed Leeds have trained at Elland Road three times this week ahead of the crucial clash against Tottenham as his side look to avoid relegation
- Sam Allardyce’s Leeds have trained at Elland Road on three occasions this week
- Allardyce’s side take on Tottenham on Sunday as they look to avoid relegation
- Leeds face a huge task but Allardyce is sending a positive message to his players
Sam Allardyce has revealed that Leeds have trained at Elland Road three times this week ahead of Sunday’s crucial game against Tottenham.
Leeds go into the game in 19th place in the Premier League and face a tough challenge to ensure survival, but Allardyce believes training at the stadium will boost their chances of staying up.
If Leeds fail to win, they will be relegated, while they will also be relegated if Everton beat Bournemouth or Leicester beat West Ham. If Everton draw, Leeds will need to win by three goals to stay up.
Tottenham also have something to play for as they can still get into the Europa Conference League.
Allardyce feels the atmosphere at Elland Road will help his side.
Sam Allardyce has revealed that his Leeds side have trained at Elland Road three times this week
Allardyce wants his side to be in top form for the crucial game against Tottenham
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Allardyce said: ‘This is where we live or die on Sunday. It’s all about this arena, this stadium, with the amazing atmosphere that goes with it.’
Allardyce is yet to win a game since being appointed by Leeds on a short-term basis, managing one draw and two defeats so far.
It has been a turbulent season for Leeds, who have had four different managers in Jesse Marsch, interim boss Michael Skubala, Javi Gracia and Allardyce.
With 74 goals conceded, Leeds have the worst defensive record in the division and will need to get more at the back against Tottenham if they are to have any chance of survival.
Leeds legends Eddie Gray and Gary McAllister spoke to the squad at the training ground last week before they headed to Elland Road.
Gray and McAllister told the squad what it means to wear the Leeds badge and the club’s importance to the city.
Rodrigo is in training, while Junior Firpo is available again after suspension, but Patrick Bamford is a doubt with a hamstring injury.
Leeds will be eliminated if they fail to win or if either Everton or Leicester secure wins
