Why taking on Liverpool at Anfield is the 'perfect' Premier League start for Leeds United

Liverpool legend John Barnes believes Leeds United's trip to Anfield on the opening day of the new Premier League campaign is the perfect start.

Marcelo Bielsa's outfit will travel to Merseyside to take on the reigning top flight champions on the opening day next month.

The Whites have been handed the toughest of beginnings in the curtain raiser on September 12 after the fixtures were released for the 2020/21 season.

United will follow up a clash against Jurgen Klopp's men with a showdown against fellow Championship promotion winners Fulham at Elland Road before a trip to Bramall Lane to take on Sheffield United.

Former Reds forward Barnes, though, has admitted that the clash between Liverpool and Leeds is a fantastic way to begin the fresh term.

"It's a great start," Barnes said.

"Leeds are coming up and I think deservedly so. I love Bielsa. He is an incredible character. He has done so well for Leeds.

"I thought they should have come up last year but I'm delighted they're up now.

"I feel a little bit sorry for Leeds fans that they won't be able to be there to see it. And had this game been at an empty Elland Road I think fans would've been disappointed too, but you couldn't hope for a better start.

It's going to be a great start to the season and a great game."

Asked whether he thought Bielsa could make an immediate impact on the Premier League, he said: "Yes, I do.

“If you look at the way he actually plays football he plays football with adventure, with flair, [Pep] Guardiola talks about him being one of his major influences.

“When teams come up from the Championship you think 'who can stay up and do well?' I think Leeds is one. Obviously they’ll make a few signings so I don’t fear for Leeds at all.

"Hopefully the crowds can get back to Elland Road because that will be a big plus for them. A full Elland Road in the Premier League... there's not a finer sight apart from Anfield."