Premier League Injury Updates and FPL Insights for Upcoming Fixtures Leeds United faces several injury concerns ahead of their match against Burnley, with Gabriel Gudmundsson ruled out due to a serious hamstring injury. Noah Okafor, who scored three goals and provided an assist in his last three matches, remains a doubt after sustaining a calf problem during last week’s FA Cup semi-final defeat. Jaka Bijol is also a doubt due to a hip issue. Burnley has provided no new team news since Scott Parker’s departure, with Josh Cullen, Connor Roberts, and Jordan Beyer still sidelined. Hannibal Mejbri and Axel Tuanzebe could return after missing last weekend’s defeat to Manchester City. For FPL players, Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s penalty in Gameweek 33 remains his only goal in eight league matches, with the Leeds striker missing eight of his nine big chances in that span. Okafor, one of the most-bought midfielders of the week, has amassed 31 points from three goals and an assist in his last three matches. Burnley’s Zian Flemming has scored in each of his last three away games, maintaining a strong record on the road. In the Brentford vs West Ham match, Jordan Henderson and Vitaly Janelt are progressing in their recoveries and may be late calls. Brentford head coach Keith Andrews reported no new issues, while West Ham is close to full strength, with only minor injuries in the squad. FPL players to watch include Dango Ouattara, who has created eight chances in his last three games at the Gtech Community Stadium, and Igor Thiago, who has scored 12 goals in 17 home appearances for Brentford. West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen has recorded nine assists in as many Gameweeks, including two in his last match.#burnley #leeds_united #dominic_calvert_lewin #jaka_bijol #noah_okafor
Manchester United's Road Back to the Top Is Paved with Challenges Manchester United’s recent 2-1 defeat to Leeds United at Old Trafford served as a stark reminder that the club’s return to elite competition remains an uphill battle. Despite interim head coach Michael Carrick’s efforts to stabilize the team, the loss highlighted the fragility of United’s current position in the Premier League. The match, which ended with Leeds celebrating their first league victory at Old Trafford since 1981, underscored the challenges United face in reclaiming their status as title contenders. The game began with Leeds, a team in relegation trouble, showing remarkable intensity. The visitors, who had not scored in the Premier League since February, dominated the first half, with Daniel Farke’s side creating multiple chances. Noah Okafor’s two goals in the first 45 minutes left United reeling, despite the hosts’ recent 24-day gap between matches. The lack of rhythm and cohesion was evident, with red shirts struggling to control the midfield and passes frequently going astray. The second half brought a dramatic turn of events when referee Paul Tierney sent off Lisandro Martinez for a perceived hair pull on Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The red card, which could result in a three-match suspension, left United a man down and forced Carrick to adjust his tactics. Despite the disadvantage, United managed to pull a goal back through Casemiro, but their response was far from convincing. Benjamin Sesko’s header was saved by Karl Darlow, and another Casemiro header was cleared off the line by Calvert-Lewin. Carrick acknowledged the team’s resilience in the aftermath, calling the performance a “really good reaction” despite the defeat.#manchester_united #michael_carrick #leeds_united #kobbie_mainoo #daniel_farke
Manchester United Launch Appeal Over Lisandro Martinez’s Controversial Red Card Against Leeds Manchester United have officially decided to appeal the red card received by defender Lisandro Martinez during their Premier League clash against Leeds United on Monday. The Argentine was sent off in the second half for tugging on Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair, an incident that was initially missed by the on-field referee. The video assistant referee (VAR) later reviewed the footage and confirmed the challenge, leading to Martinez’s dismissal. The decision has sparked significant controversy, with United’s manager, Michael Carrick, expressing strong dissatisfaction. Carrick described the red card as “absolutely shocking” and hinted at an appeal during his post-match comments. The Telegraph confirmed that the club has formalized its intention to challenge the decision, which could have major implications for the team’s upcoming fixtures. Martinez’s red card means he will miss the next three matches, including crucial games against Chelsea, Brentford, and Liverpool. His absence will further strain United’s defensive options, particularly as they already face potential setbacks with Harry Maguire. The England international is under investigation by the Football Association for alleged improper conduct, which could result in a suspension for Saturday’s home game against Chelsea. This dual crisis adds pressure to a squad that has seen mixed results under Carrick’s interim management. Carrick’s appointment as interim head coach has been a turning point for Manchester United, who have shown signs of resurgence under his leadership.#manchester_united #football_association #michael_carrick #leeds_united #lisandro_martinez
Hair Pulling in Football: The Debate Over Red Cards and Three-Game Bans The Premier League has faced growing controversy over the use of red cards and three-match bans for incidents of hair pulling, with managers and pundits questioning whether such actions truly warrant the harshest punishments. Recent incidents involving Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez and Everton’s Michael Keane have reignited debates about the consistency and fairness of disciplinary decisions in the sport. The latest episode unfolded on Monday when Martinez was shown a red card for pulling the hair of Leeds United’s Rodrigo Ibanez during a match. Manchester United manager Michael Carrick called the decision “shocking,” arguing that the action, while unsportsmanlike, did not justify a red card or a three-game suspension. This followed a similar incident in January when Everton’s Michael Keane was sent off for tugging the hair of Wolves’ Tolu Arokodare, prompting manager David Moyes to describe the punishment as “ridiculous.” The Premier League’s strict approach to hair pulling as violent conduct has been a recurring point of contention. Since August 2022, when Tottenham’s Cristian Romero was not penalized for tugging Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella by the hair, referees have adopted a zero-tolerance policy. VAR officials now automatically issue red cards for such incidents, regardless of the force applied. This has led to criticism from managers and former players, who argue that the punishment is disproportionate. Alan Shearer, a Match of the Day pundit, echoed this sentiment, stating that hair pulling should never result in a red card. “We need to be careful about where the game is heading if that is being deemed violent conduct,” he said on BBC Breakfast. “It’s not what we want to see.#manchester_united #premier_league #michael_carrick #leeds_united #rodrigo_ibanez
Lisandro Martínez Returns to Manchester United but Gets Red Card for Pulling Rival's Hair Lisandro Martínez, the Argentine defender, made a return to Manchester United after a two-month absence due to a muscle injury but was sent off in a dramatic turn of events during a Premier League clash against Leeds United. The incident occurred in the second half, sparking controversy and raising questions about the severity of the action. Martínez, who had been sidelined since February 10, started the match as a key player but was shown a red card for pulling the hair of his opponent, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, leading to his immediate expulsion. Leeds United capitalized on the situation, winning 2-1, while Martínez will miss the next two matches due to the suspension. Martínez’s return to the pitch was a significant moment for both the club and the Argentina national team, which is preparing for the 2026 World Cup. The 28-year-old had been out of action since a hamstring injury in late January, and his reappearance was seen as a positive sign for the squad. However, the red card overshadowed his contribution, as the incident occurred during a critical phase of the game. Leeds took an early 2-0 lead, and United struggled to find an equalizer, with Martínez’s dismissal further complicating their efforts. The incident unfolded in the 10th minute of the second half when Martínez challenged Calvert-Lewin for a high ball. According to the match report, Martínez used his hands to push the English forward, causing the ball to deflect into the air. The referee, Paul Tierney, consulted the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) and ruled the action as "violent conduct," leading to the immediate red card.#manchester_united #leeds_united #2026_world_cup #lisandro_martinez #dominic_calvert_lewin
Lisandro Martínez Saves Manchester United from Disaster with Critical Block Manchester United faced a dire situation in their match against Leeds United on Monday, April 13, 2026, as they conceded two goals within the first half, including a swift opener just five minutes into the game. The visitors, Leeds United, dominated proceedings at Old Trafford, showcasing superior intent, physicality, and cohesion, which translated into a 2-0 lead at halftime. However, the match could have ended in a far worse outcome for United had it not been for the heroics of defender Lisandro Martínez, whose last-minute block prevented a third goal and potentially a catastrophic defeat. The first half was a stark contrast between the two teams. Leeds United, playing with confidence and precision, controlled the midfield and created numerous chances, while United struggled to find rhythm. The breakthrough came in the 5th minute when Leeds capitalized on a defensive error, slotting the ball past United’s goalkeeper. The visitors doubled their lead in the 35th minute, further distancing themselves from their hosts. By halftime, the scoreline read 2-0 in favor of Leeds, leaving United in a precarious position. The second half began with Leeds continuing to press, and they nearly extended their lead in the 58th minute. A miscalculation between defenders Leny Yoro and Senne Lammens allowed Ao Tanaka to retrieve the ball with the goalmouth completely open. Tanaka, undeterred, attempted to fire a shot into the empty net, but Martínez, who had sprinted across the pitch, made a last-ditch intervention. His powerful block deflected the ball away from the goal, thwarting what could have been a third goal and a devastating blow for United.#manchester_united #leeds_united #lisandro_martinez #ao_tanaka #carl_recine
Lisandro Martinez: Manchester Utd Defender Sent Off for Hair-Pull on Leeds United Striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez was shown a straight red card in the 56th minute of a Premier League match against Leeds United at Old Trafford. The incident occurred during an off-the-ball confrontation with Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, where Martinez was found guilty of pulling the attacker’s hair. The referee, Kevin Tierney, confirmed the decision after reviewing footage, citing the act as “violent conduct.” Martinez, 28, will now face a three-match suspension, which will exclude him from Saturday’s clash against Chelsea. The match unfolded with United trailing 2-0 at halftime, following a first-half double from Noah Okafor. Martinez’s red card came as United sought to turn the game around. Tierney’s announcement to the stadium emphasized the severity of the incident, stating, “After review, Manchester United 6 is guilty of pulling his hair - violent conduct. Final decision is red card.” The Premier League Match Centre later posted on X, confirming the red card was issued after a VAR review. Martinez’s action drew immediate criticism from pundits and fans. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville remarked on Sky Sports, “Martinez looks perplexed and confused: ‘What have I done?’ He’s pulled his hair and that results in a red card, nowadays. He knows what he’s doing there.” The incident marked Martinez’s first Premier League start for United since a 1-1 draw against West Ham on February 10, following a calf injury recovery. This red card followed a similar incident in the previous league match, where Harry Maguire was sent off for a tackle on Bournemouth’s Kyle Walker during a 2-2 draw.#manchester_united #leeds_united #lisandro_martinez #dominic_calvert_lewin #kevin_tierney
Bruno Fernandes Aims To Win Premier League With Manchester United Bruno Fernandes has declared his focus on securing the Premier League title with Manchester United, emphasizing the club’s ambitions as a central priority. The Portuguese midfielder, who has emerged as a key figure in United’s resurgence under interim manager Michael Carrick, is driving the team’s push for the league title. Currently third in the standings ahead of their upcoming match against Leeds United, Fernandes has delivered a standout campaign with eight league goals and 16 assists, placing him on the verge of the Premier League’s single-season assist record. The 31-year-old is now just four assists away from tying the all-time mark, jointly held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry. Fernandes’ contributions have been instrumental in United’s revival, with his creativity and leadership shaping the team’s attacking play. Speaking to The Sunday Times, the captain reiterated his commitment to the club’s goals, stating, “The expectation will always be that we [United] want to win the Premier League. I know people will think: ‘You go to get more money, better contracts.’ No, you come to Man United because you want to win trophies. Money, you can get anywhere.” He highlighted the club’s storied history and the allure of its competitive environment, which continues to attract players who prioritize success over financial incentives. Fernandes’ journey with Manchester United began in 2020, and since then, he has played a pivotal role in the club’s recent achievements. The midfielder helped secure the 2022-23 EFL Cup and the 2023 FA Cup, marking significant milestones for the club.#manchester_united #premier_league #michael_carrick #leeds_united #bruno_fernandes
Why Kobbie Mainoo is not in Manchester United squad vs Leeds Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been omitted from the squad for their Premier League clash against Leeds United on Monday night due to a minor injury sustained during a training session. The 23-year-old, who had started every Premier League match under manager Michael Carrick since joining the club, was not included in the matchday XI, marking his first absence from the starting lineup in the competition. Carrick opted to exclude Mainoo to avoid risking his recovery, with Manuel Ugarte stepping into the squad to replace him in the starting XI. The decision to leave Mainoo out came as Carrick made four tactical adjustments to the team ahead of the match. The changes followed a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth in the previous fixture, with the manager seeking to address defensive and midfield balance. Alongside Mainoo’s replacement, the squad saw the inclusion of Noussair Mazraoui, Lisandro Martinez, and Benjamin Sesko. These players took the places of Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire (who is suspended for international duty), and Bryan Mbeumo, respectively. Martinez, who had previously missed five Premier League games after sustaining a training injury ahead of the match against Everton on February 10, returned to full training last week. His inclusion in the squad underscores his importance to the team’s defensive structure, though his fitness remains a key consideration for Carrick. Meanwhile, Mbeumo, who had been part of full training in the Republic of Ireland earlier in the week, was named on the bench for the first time. The 26-year-old had previously withdrawn from international duty with Cameroon as a precaution, though he remained available for club action.#manchester_united #michael_carrick #leeds_united #kobbie_mainoo #manuel_ugarte
Michael Carrick Names Manchester United Team for Leeds Encounter Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has confirmed his starting XI for the Premier League clash against Leeds United at Old Trafford on 13 April 2026. The match, set for a 20:00 BST kick-off, marks the Red Devils’ return to competitive action after a 24-day break since their last game. Carrick’s side aims to extend their perfect home record under his management, while Leeds, still in the relegation battle, seek crucial points to bolster their survival hopes. The lineup features a notable return for Lisandro Martinez, who is back in the starting XI at center-back following his suspension. Martinez, who had not played since the 1-1 draw against West Ham United in February, replaces Harry Maguire, who remains sidelined. The Argentine international’s inclusion adds defensive stability to a squad that has relied heavily on Martinez’s presence in recent weeks. Other key changes to Carrick’s XI include Noussair Mazraoui stepping into the right-back position in place of Diogo Dalot, while Manuel Ugarte takes over from Kobbie Mainoo. Mainoo, who is not in the squad, is recovering from a minor injury sustained during training. The decision to omit him has sparked speculation about his contract status, though Carrick has not commented further on the matter. In attack, Benjamin Sesko starts ahead of Bryan Mbeumo, with the Slovenia striker tasked with providing width and creativity. Shea Lacey, who had been absent from the substitutes’ bench since the 3-2 victory over Fulham, returns to the squad for the Leeds encounter. The 22-year-old defender’s inclusion adds depth to the backline, particularly with the potential for late substitutions.#manchester_united #michael_carrick #leeds_united #benjamin_sesko #lisandro_martinez
Man United and Leeds United Set for High-Stakes Clash at Old Trafford Manchester United caretaker manager Michael Carrick emphasized the significance of the upcoming match against Leeds United, highlighting the intensity and stakes involved despite the teams’ league positions. The encounter, set for Monday, March 13, at Old Trafford, pits the reigning champions against a side currently in the relegation battle, though both teams face critical challenges. Carrick’s squad aims to secure a top-four spot, while Leeds, under Daniel Farke, seeks to avoid further decline after a poor run of form. The match, broadcast on Sky Sports, Peacock, Jio Hotstar, and Stan Sport, will kick off at 8:00 p.m. GMT, with live coverage available on ESPN. The rivalry between the two clubs has always been fierce, with historical data showing Manchester United’s dominance at Old Trafford. The Red Devils have remained unbeaten in their last 18 home league games against Leeds, dating back to 1981. Leeds, meanwhile, have struggled to break this streak, with their only recent victory over United coming in a reverse fixture at Elland Road, which marked the end of their away games under Ruben Amorim. The match promises to be a test of resilience, as both teams grapple with injury concerns and tactical adjustments. Injuries have plagued both squads, with Manchester United facing multiple absences. Defender Harry Maguire, suspended for the match, has been a key figure in their defense, particularly since Carrick took over. His absence leaves the team to rely on Leny Yoro in the right center-back role, with Ayden Heaven and Lisandro Martinez as potential options. Martinez, recovering from a calf injury, is expected to return to full fitness, offering experience and control in midfield.#manchester_united #michael_carrick #leeds_united #daniel_farke #old_Trafford
Premier League Predictions and Best Bets: Man Utd to Continue Home Form in Leeds Win Manchester United are set to face Leeds United in a Premier League clash on Monday, with the hosts favored to secure a victory at Old Trafford. The match, scheduled for 8 p.m., will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, offering fans a chance to witness the action as the Red Devils aim to extend their strong home record. Manchester United have maintained a dominant performance at Old Trafford since Christmas, losing just once in their last 14 Premier League games. The team’s home form has been a key factor in their recent success, with Michael Carrick’s side positioned as strong favorites to take maximum points. Sky Bet has priced them at 1/2 for a win, reflecting the confidence in their ability to overcome the challenges posed by Leeds. Leeds United, however, remain a formidable opponent despite their recent struggles. The Championship side has lost only twice in their last 10 Premier League matches, showcasing their resilience and tactical adaptability. Their aggressive approach to duels is expected to test United’s defense, particularly in the midfield. Jayden Bogle, Leeds’ central defender, will be under pressure to contain the dangerous ball-carrying of Matheus Cunha, who has drawn 24 cards against opponents since the start of the 2025 season. Bogle’s recent disciplinary issues, including two yellow cards in his last two appearances, have made him a key target for bettors. Sky Bet has listed him at 5/2 for a second booking in this match. Jones Knows, the football betting expert, has predicted a 2-1 victory for Manchester United, citing their home advantage and the defensive vulnerabilities of Leeds. The expert’s best bet for the match is Bogle’s second booking, which aligns with the team’s aggressive style of play.#manchester_united #leeds_united #sky_sports #jones_knows #matheus_cunha
Sutton's predictions: Leeds United v Brentford The tactical approach Brentford will employ is almost perfectly suited to challenge Leeds, particularly by exploiting counter-attacks. Keith Andrews's team, aiming for European qualification, will be frustrated by their 2-0 lead slipping in a 2-2 draw against Wolves on Monday. While there may be moments of tension for Elland Road fans as the Bees advance quickly, the author remains confident in Leeds securing the victory. The predicted scoreline is 2-1. For more insights and to share opinions, visit the full predictions section.#wolves #brentford #leeds_united #keith_andrews #elland_road
Anton Stach has become a central figure in Leeds United's efforts to remain competitive in the Premier League, blending humor with tactical importance. Known for his unassuming demeanor in interviews, his Instagram presence reveals a different side, marked by his role in social media memes and his contributions to the team's set-piece strategy. As Leeds face an eight-game stretch critical to their survival in the league, Stach's ability to balance the "silly and serious" aspects of football has been vital. The midfielder, who has been heavily involved in key draws this season, has drawn comparisons to Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes due to his set-piece expertise. Stach leads the Premier League in creating chances from dead balls with 27, matching Fernandes' tally. His efforts have directly contributed to 13 of Leeds' 37 league goals via set-pieces, a record higher than any other team. Four of these goals stem from his direct involvement, underscoring his impact. Stach's precision and timing have been key to Leeds' success in dead-ball situations. His expected assists from set plays (2.29) rank among the top three in the league, with Fernandes, Declan Rice, and James Garner also in the same category. His ability to deliver accurate crosses and create scoring opportunities has made him a linchpin in Daniel Farke's midfield. Beyond set-pieces, Stach's physicality and aggression align with Farke's tactical demands, as he frequently recovers the ball in the attacking third, ranking second in possession wins in that area. Despite Leeds' recent winless streak of five league games—the longest of the season—Stach remains a focal point. His role as a "chief courier of passes" and his work rate have been critical to the team's structure.#premier_league #leeds_united #bruno_fernandes #anton_stach #daniel_farke
West Ham analysis: Will Hammers use FA Cup win to kick-on in league? West Ham’s FA Cup victory over Brentford on Monday has sparked speculation about whether the club can harness this momentum to strengthen its Premier League survival bid. With a crucial home fixture against Manchester City looming, the Hammers made seven tactical adjustments to their lineup, yet it was a familiar and reliable figure who played a pivotal role in securing the win. Jarrod Bowen, a key player for the club over his six-year tenure, has been instrumental in recent matches and will need to deliver consistently if West Ham are to avoid relegation. Currently sitting 18th in the league, level on 28 points with 17th-placed Nottingham Forest, West Ham face nine remaining league games to secure their Premier League status. The recent FA Cup win, following a vital 2-1 victory at Fulham last week, has provided a much-needed confidence boost. This positive trajectory contrasts with their struggles against top-tier teams, such as the 5-1 home defeat by Chelsea in August and the 3-0 loss to Wolves in January. However, the Hammers’ campaign, which began under Graham Potter’s management, could still culminate in a historic FA Cup run. A potential semi-final appearance at Wembley would mark a significant milestone for the club, which last reached the final in 1980. To achieve this, West Ham must first overcome Leeds United in the sixth-round tie. A victory would set up a dramatic showdown at the national stadium, offering a chance to rewrite their recent history in the competition. As the season progresses, the focus remains on balancing domestic challenges with the pursuit of silverware in the FA Cup, a task that will require resilience and tactical precision from the Hammers.#fa_cup #west_ham #jarrod_bowen #graham_potter #leeds_united
