Just one win in five games has landed Leeds United in a bit of a bother as they have slipped out of the playoff spots and have relinquished their position to Fulham who looked like outsiders a few months ago. Leeds have become a bit complacent and Garry Monk admitted that when he said, “We’ve been in the playoffs quite comfortably and have kind of been in that protective mode of trying to stay in there.”
Leeds’ next game is against Burton Albion. Nigel Clough’s side recently picked up a morale-boosting win over fellow strugglers Birmingham City and are one step closer to securing their status in the Championship for next season. They still aren’t mathematically safe, though, and will give the Whites a tough fight in the upcoming clash.
The good thing is that Leeds’ rivals, Fulham and Huddersfield, will face each other this weekend and Monk’s side can potentially get back into the top six and create a gap. A good result for Huddersfield will be more favourable for Leeds because of the outlook of the table. Sheffield Wednesday also have a tough clash against Derby, even though the latter don’t really have anything to play for except maybe a top 10 finish.
Leeds have heavily relied on Chris Wood’s goals and it’s about time the rest of the attackers chip in considering what’s at stake in the next few weeks.
Head to head
The last time these two squared off, Leeds were comfortable 2-0 winners at Elland Road. They should be winning this game on paper even though Nigel Clough has a pretty good record against the Peacocks. In seven games, he’s managed to mastermind wins over Leeds on six occasions.
It should be noted that the wins came whilst he was in charge of a good Derby County side. Doing the same with a vastly inferior Burton team will be hard and his team were deservedly beaten last time.
Team News
For the hosts, Jon McLaughlin is facing a race against time to be fit for the clash after suffering an arm injury. Marvin Sordell is unlikely to feature tomorrow.
Leeds will be boosted by the return of Ronaldo Vieira as the teenager returned to training following an illness. Liam Cooper is still suspended and Leeds could face a dearth of options if Pontus Jansson is booked. The Swede is on 14 yellow cards and faces a three-game ban if he picks up another yellow.
Form Guide
Burton Albion: L-W-L-D-L-W
Leeds United: W-L-L-W-D-L
Odds
Burton Albion: 19/10
Leeds United: 6/4
Draw: 11/5
