'That's the problem' - Paul Merson delivers shock verdict on Leeds clash vs Arsenal, outlines major advantage for Bielsa's side

The Whites haven’t triumphed against the north Londoners since 2003, and go into the clash off the back of two successive 4-1 defeats in the Premier League.

But Merson has argued that Leeds’ fortunes in those two recent outings – against Crystal Palace and Leicester City – have hinged largely on their inability to deal with sides who carry the ball instead of trying to pass their way through Bielsa’s side.

The pundit highlighted Eberechi Eze in particular as a player who caused issues for the Whites when they came up against Palace a fortnight ago, but also suggested that his former club lack that kind of presence in their ranks.

Speaking on Sky Sports News’ Soccer Saturday coverage, Merson said: “I see Leeds beating Arsenal, because Arsenal haven’t got them players in their team who go past people.

"I think that’s the problem – they go to Man City and they draw, because Man City play football and they pass and move.

"They don’t have too many players in their team who will skip past players, and when you skip past players, going man to man, you’re away.

"For me, I personally think Leeds beat Arsenal, because I don’t think Arsenal have the players to cope with Leeds.”

Leeds have lost four of their opening eight matches since returning to the Premier League, having also come up short against Wolves and defending champions Liverpool on the opening day.