Leeds edge closer to Premier League safety with two crucial wins in 2026

Leeds moved nine points clear of the relegation zone after back-to-back wins, including a historic victory at Manchester United.

Joyful scenes at Elland Road The final whistle at Elland Road sparked celebrations among the home supporters. A win over Wolves followed by a dramatic 2-1 triumph at Manchester United lifted Leeds nine points clear of the drop zone. Tottenham's draw with Brighton reduced that advantage to eight points, but with just five fixtures remaining, Premier League survival appears within reach for the Yorkshire side. Leeds manager Daniel Farke acknowledged the need to maintain momentum, warning that strong rivals behind them would push hard for points. ## Relegation battle heats up Wolves and Burnley look set to occupy two of the three relegation spots unless an unlikely turnaround occurs. Tottenham, West Ham, Nottingham Forest, and Leeds are locked in a tight contest to avoid the third dangerous position. Nottingham Forest and West Ham have upcoming matches that could widen the gap to 18th-placed Tottenham, with Forest hosting Burnley on Sunday at 14:00 BST before West Ham face Crystal Palace on Monday at 20:00. ## Leeds on the brink of safety Despite remaining cautious, Farke's post-match celebrations with fans hinted at growing confidence in survival. "I still think we need to stay with our foot on the gas and keep going because there are strong teams behind us that will try and chase us down," he told Match of the Day. With Wolves and Burnley likely destined for the Championship, the focus shifts to the battle for the third relegation spot among the chasing pack. ## Historical advantage for Leeds Leeds would make unwanted history if relegated this season, as no team has ever been sent down after securing 39 or more points from the first 33 games of a 38-game Premier League campaign. Their victory over Wolves pushed them past Birmingham's 2010-11 record of 38 points at this stage, who were subsequently relegated. Only six teams have ever been relegated with 39 points or more in a 38-game season, and none in the past 14 years. ## Remaining fixtures favor Leeds Leeds currently boast the most favorable remaining schedule, highlighted by a home clash with Burnley, who may already be relegated by the time they visit Elland Road on May 1. The Whites also face Tottenham and West Ham on the final day, matches they could approach with cautious optimism given their current cushion. By contrast, Nottingham Forest face a grueling run-in with four of their last five games against European hopefuls, including tough away trips to Chelsea and Manchester United. ## West Ham and Tottenham fight for survival West Ham and Tottenham remain deeply involved in the relegation scrap, with just seven points separating sixth and 14th in the table. West Ham might secretly wish Leeds to secure safety early, easing their own survival battle. Tottenham, winless in league matches in 2026 and only winning twice since October 26, face Wolves on Sunday in what could be their best chance to end their streak. ## Burnley and Wolves face impossible tasks Burnley's survival hopes hinge on winning all six of their remaining fixtures, including clashes with Manchester City and Arsenal, a near-impossible task. Wolves require an unprecedented perfect finish, coupled with Tottenham and West Ham losing every game and a 20-goal goal difference swing to stand any chance. Their situation serves as a stark contrast to Leeds' more manageable path to safety.