Ex-PL CEO drops exciting Leeds promotion claim

Former Premier League CEO Keith Wyness has confidently predicted that Leeds United will secure promotion to the top flight through the playoffs this month. Wyness, who served as CEO at Everton between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy, believes Leeds have the quality and resolve to bounce back from their disappointing finish to the Championship season.

Leeds finished third in the Championship, narrowly missing out on automatic promotion, and will face Norwich in a two-legged semi-final for a chance to play in the playoff final at Wembley on May 26. Despite their recent poor form and the absence of injured striker Patrick Bamford, Wyness backs Leeds to overcome their playoff opponents and secure promotion.

“Missing out on automatic promotion will only strengthen their determination,” Wyness said on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast. “When I look at the other playoff contenders, I believe Leeds have the best chance of going up. They have the quality to bounce back and get through to Wembley, and I’m expecting them to win the final.”

Wyness’s prediction comes as a boost to Leeds fans, who have endured a nervy end to the season. With the experience of narrowly missing out on automatic promotion, Wyness believes Leeds will be more determined than ever to secure their place in the Premier League.