Arsenal legend Ian Wright declares wish for Leeds United's fans and soft spot for Marcelo Bielsa's Whites

Ahead of Sunday's Premier League showdown between the Whites and Gunners at an empty Elland Road, Wright also hopes that Leeds United's fans will get the chance to cheer on their side from the famous ground's stands before the season's conclusion.

United are approaching their latest meeting against one of the country's big guns in a first league clash in 16 years but another game that will be played behind closed doors in the country's ongoing fight against coronavirus and strict social distancing measures.

Contests between Leeds and Arsenal in Wright's pomp throughout the 1990s would often have fans on the edge of their seats and the former Gunners and England striker has been hugely impressed with the way that head coach Marcelo Bielsa has taken United back to the Premier League after a 16-year absence following the club's relegation back in 2004.

Wright has been so taken with United that the 57-year-old now hopes that Leeds are back for good ahead of tomorrow's 4.30pm kick-off at Elland Road.

There is still only one result the Gunners legend wants to see this weekend but thereafter the former marksman has outlined his desire to see Leeds more than keep their necks above water and in particular for the club's fans.

"I don't want no one to beat my team but I don't want Leeds to get into a situation where they are struggling," said Wright, Speaking on this week's edition of the Wrighty's House podcast.

"I kind of like Leeds. Of course I want to beat Leeds but I know (Patrick) Bamford and people like Kalvin Phillips.

"I'm not doing the tribalism now, obviously when Arsenal play I very much want them to win, the same with Palace.

"But I also want Leeds to be playing well in this league because they grace this league and I hope that Leeds fans can see the Leeds side at Elland Road before the season finishes.

"It couldn't be any crueler and let's hope that can happen for all fans to be honest."

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Thank you Laura Collins