English Premier League: Top 3 Future Bets – Will Arsenal finish in the Top 6?
Leeds to finish in the bottom half of the table (-110)
Leeds was one of the biggest surprises of the 2020-21 season. They managed to finish ninth place in their return to the Premier League after a 16-year absence.
More from The Top Flight
- Barcelona identify Newcastle star as Robert Lewandowski replacement
- Arsenal injury news: Mikel Arteta confirms “rapid” attacker suffered injury
- “600 days” Fans make SHOCK Chelsea revelation – They really are poor
- Arsenal transfer news: Mikel Arteta rivals Manchester United for wonderkid
- Manchester United: Erik ten Hag pinpoints 4 players amid Brighton loss
A majority of their success was a credit to their aggressive playstyle and superior fitness levels. They were ranked fifth-best in the league with 57.5 expected goals (xG) per game.
However, the Peacocks also had some luck on their side. Unlike some of the other top teams in the EPL, a majority of their key players remained healthy for most of the season.
Additionally, they caught a lot of breaks defensively. The Peacocks had 62.9 expected goals against but managed to only give up 54 goals during the 2020-21 campaign.
There is a common precedent of teams having a strong season in their EPL return but then dropping off in quality the following year. For Instance, Sheffield United finished ninth in the table during their first Premier League stint but was completely overmatched in their second year and was relegated.
It is unlikely for Leeds to be regulated this season, but they are likely in store for an underwhelming run.