Leeds United will welcome Southampton in what might prove to be a pivotal Championship encounter on the final day.
Southampton will face Leeds United without Stuart Armstrong for their final-day encounter, following the midfielder’s unfortunate injury during Saturday’s 2-1 loss at Cardiff City. Armstrong sustained the injury off the ball, leaving the field on a stretcher after an awkward fall. Southampton had exhausted all their substitutions, finishing the game with 10 men. The defeat was further compounded by Cian Ashford’s 96th-minute winner for Cardiff, adding to the team’s woes. Armstrong’s absence is set to extend to their upcoming matches against Leicester City and Stoke as well.
Manager Martin expressed concern over Armstrong’s injury, suggesting that it might sideline him for the rest of the season. The setback is particularly disappointing given Armstrong’s strong performance in the match. Southampton’s frustration was evident as they squandered numerous opportunities to build on Joe Aribo’s early goal. Ultimately, Cardiff’s equalizer shifted the momentum, leading to their late triumph.
The defeat leaves Southampton trailing by five points behind the automatic promotion spots and three behind third-placed Leeds, with just three matches left. Despite still being in contention mathematically, Martin acknowledges the significant setback caused by the loss at Cardiff. Reflecting on the match, he noted the similarities with Leicester’s struggles earlier in the day, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities, which Southampton failed to do.
Looking ahead, Southampton’s clash with Leicester could heavily influence Leeds’ promotion aspirations. Meanwhile, Enzo Maresca’s side needs just two wins from their remaining fixtures to secure automatic promotion. Ipswich Town remains the primary target for Farke’s team, with their upcoming match against Middlesbrough presenting an opportunity to leapfrog them in the standings.