‘You don’t expect it’: Newcastle United man gives West Ham ‘insider info’ on how to beat Leeds United

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West Ham United welcome Leeds to the London Stadium after midweek Europa Conference League action against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday.

Newcastle United star Callum Wilson has given pal and fellow podcast host Michail Antonio tips on how West Ham United should prepare to face Leeds United this weekend.

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Wilson starred for the Magpies last weekend in the thrilling 2-2 draw at Elland Road, bagging twice from the penalty spot as Eddie Howe's men were held by a determined Sam Allardyce side.

Both clubs were desperate for three points given their contrasting Premier League predicaments and next up for Leeds in the club's relegation battle is a trip to the London Stadium on Sunday.

Callum Wilson and Michail Antonio record the BBC Sounds' Footballer's Football Podcast together every week and on the latest episode, the Hammers man picked his colleague's brain about what to expect from Leeds United.

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Antonio asked: "So, how is Leeds? We've got them this weekend. How do they play? Are they playing with high-tempo pressing and has it changed under the new gaffer?"

Wilson replied: "So you want some insider info, let me see what I can do for you. They are a side where they are on the front foot, they will press, try and get in your face, tackle, try and make the game bitty.

"They want it to be a fight, a mess. They're good at set pieces, crosses. Long throws - any throw-ins are coming in the box.

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West Ham United welcome Leeds United this weekend (Image: Getty Images)West Ham United welcome Leeds United this weekend (Image: Getty Images)
West Ham United welcome Leeds United this weekend (Image: Getty Images) | Getty Images

"They are obviously fighting for their lives so they've got that desire. It's always the case when you're playing teams at the bottom of the league, it's difficult.

"Their stadium and atmosphere was one of the best I've played in this season. For a team that's down there in the relegation zone you don't expect atmospheres to be like that."

First up for West Ham is the second leg of the Europa Conference League semi-final against AZ Alkmaar, which the Hammers take a 2-1 lead into after the home match last week.

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Reflecting on what a win would mean for the West Ham season, Antonio said: "People are going to say this is one of our best season's even though the whole season we've been getting stick all season. The fact is, if we win on Thursday, everyone is going to say what a season it's been."

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