Leeds, Aug 18: Leeds United mark their return to the Premier League with a tough opener against Everton on Monday night, hoping to overturn a poor recent record against the Toffees.
Promoted as Championship winners last season, the Whites have been in imperious form in the second tier, losing just once in their past 28 league outings (W19, D8) and winning their last six. Yet, life in the top flight has proven more challenging. Leeds are winless in their last nine Premier League games (D2, L7), conceding 29 goals in that stretch, and have beaten Everton only once in their previous 11 meetings.
Manager Daniel Farke reaches a personal milestone, taking charge of his 50th Premier League fixture. However, his top-flight record remains modest, with just six wins so far. Even if he secures victory, the German would still have the lowest win rate of any manager with 50+ games in the competition.
Everton, meanwhile, arrive under David Moyes in buoyant mood after escaping relegation last season. Moyes boasts an impressive record against Leeds, winning seven of his 10 encounters.
The Scot also enjoyed success against Farke in their only previous managerial clash, when his West Ham side thrashed Norwich 4-0 in 2019–20.
The Toffees ended last season strongly with three consecutive wins, but history is not on their side at the start of campaigns. They have lost on opening day in each of the past three seasons, after going unbeaten in the previous 10.
Team news brings further intrigue. Leeds will be without summer signing Jaka Bijol through suspension, while Jayden Bogle faces a late fitness test.
Former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin could feature following his move to Elland Road.
The visitors, however, are sweating over the availability of centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, who could be sidelined for six weeks, while Vitaliy Mykolenko remains a doubt.
New signings Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are pushing for debuts. (Agencies)
