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Why are Man Utd playing Leeds in back-to-back Premier League games?

Why are Man Utd playing Leeds in back-to-back Premier League games?

Here is all you need to know.

Manchester United host Leeds at Old Trafford on Wednesday evening, but they will travel to Elland Road for the reverse fixture just four days later.

The Red Devils are in a rich vein of form at present, winning 11 of their last 13 Premier League matches since the World Cup came to an end.

They currently sit third in the Premier League table, three points behind Manchester City and a further eight points behind league leaders Arsenal.

Whilst many teams have enjoyed a short break ahead of this weekend's Premier League fixtures, Erik ten Hag has had a jam-packed schedule, being the only manager to remain in all four competitions available to him.

But before they cast their minds to Europa League ties against Barcelona and an EFL Cup final against Newcastle, they must navigate their way past Leeds in a quick fire Premier League double header.

Why are Man Utd playing Leeds twice in a row?

The pair were originally scheduled to to play in September. However, the match was postponed due to the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

With United competing on all four fronts this season, and potential fixture congestion on the horizon, the Premier League has elected to play the match as early as possible.

The contest will also not be shown on TV due to the original fixture having not been chosen for broadcast in the UK.

Despite the game's postponement, the rearranged match is still not permitted to be shown on TV.

To add to the intrigue, Leeds have parted ways with Jesse Marsch after taking control less than a year ago.

A 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend was the catalyst in the American's dismissal, leaving the Whites floundering in 17th, one place adrift of the relegation zone.

In Marsch's absence, Chris Armas, Michael Skubala and Paco Gallardo will take temporary charge of the club, and will be hoping to get a shock result from one of the league's most in-form sides.

Featured Image Credit: Alamy

Topics: Manchester United, Leeds United, Erik Ten Hag, Premier League, Football