By Frank McAvennie

13th Aug, 2021 | 8:00pm

Pundit delivers 'massive' Leeds prediction after early team news update for Man United showdown

Frank McAvennie insists Leeds will have the chance to punish the Manchester United defence this weekend.

The former West Ham striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claims the Whites can exploit a key Red Devils weakness.

Leeds travel to Old Trafford this weekend as their 2021-22 season gets underway.

Man United have had a strong summer transfer window improving their defence and attack.

Jadon Sancho gives Ole Gunnar Solskjaer another option in attack while Raphael Varane boosts the backline.

The Red Devils announced they had agreed a deal in principle for the Real Madrid defender on 27th July.

He has not yet been announced or registered meaning it is unlikely he will play against Leeds and McAvennie claims Marcelo Bielsa’s side can exploit this.

“Bielsa won’t change anything,” McAvennie told Football Insider‘s Ben Wild.

“We know what he’s like, he won’t change the approach for anyone. I think they have a massive chance.

“Leeds will go for it, I’m sure. Varane won’t be playing and that’s a big thing for me.

“Victor Lindelof or whoever is in there will be the weak link in there, there will be chances for them.

“Middle to front, Manchester United are so good now. I’m a huge fan of Edinson Cavani.

“Varane not being there is huge, Patrick Bamford will get a chance and he needs to take it.

“The big task will be keeping Cavani, Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho quiet.”

Leeds won plenty of plaudits for their gung-ho attacking football last season.

This approach sometimes backfired, chiefly against Man United as they lost 6-2 to their historic rival at Old Trafford last season.

In other news, Whelan thrilled by ‘incredible’ update on Leeds ‘big weapon’ pre-Man United showdown.