James Justin: Leeds United triumph at Old Trafford is a 'statement win'
Whites overturned a record of defeats at their fierce rivals by winning at Old Trafford on Monday
James Justin says Monday night’s first league win at Roses rivals Manchester United in 45 years “definitely sends a message” to their Premier League relegation rivals.
Leeds climbed six points clear of the bottom three and could make that nine on Saturday as Nottingham Forest, West Ham and Tottenham are all in action after Daniel Farke’s side face bottom club Wolves at Elland Road.
When asked if Leeds’ first-ever Premier League win at Old Trafford was their most important of the season, Justin said: “It’s always an important time.
“This is the business end of the season and to come to a club like this, who are doing well in the league, and turning them over and coming away with three points, it definitely sends a message. It’s a big one.”
Leeds’ previous top-flight win over fierce rivals United was at Elland Road over 23 years ago, but former Leicester defender Justin insists they will not lose sight of the bigger picture with six league games remaining.
“It’s a huge match for the club, but I’m kind of more level-headed,” he added. “This game, albeit a massive game for the club, is not the be-all and end-all in our season.
“At the end of the season, we want to be staying up, whether we win this game or we don’t win this game. That’s the main goal for the club.
“But obviously it was a massive night in terms of history. It’s been a while since we’ve beat them here, and deservedly so as well. Hopefully we can take that into the weekend and deliver again.”