Stoke City v Leeds United
Thursday 26th December 8:00pm | Bet365 Stadium
Leeds have the perfect opportunity to close the gap at the top of the Championship on Boxing Day, but only if they can heap more misery on a Stoke side who have not won since early November. Another loss at the weekend, this time at the hands of ten men Sheffield Wednesday will do little for the Potters momentum, having only picked up four points from the last eight games. Leeds on the other hand will be brimming with confidence following their 4-0 demolition of Oxford Utd, thanks to Aaronson, Solomon and James all playing starring roles.
With Sheffield Utd travelling to Burnley, a side with six wins and two draws from their previous eight games, even the most sceptical Leeds fans will expect Farke's side to at-least close the three point gap. Herein lies the problem - away from home Leeds have been very average. They've picked up 14 points on the road from ten games so far, seven less than Burnley, and eight less than Sheffield Utd who have played an away game more.
Leeds last visit to the Bet365 Stadium (also a midweek game) ended badly for Farke's men, coming away empty handed after Bamford skied a penalty into row Z, followed minutes later by Struijk heading into his own net (after the ball ricochet off the bar). They'll be hoping for better fortunes this time.
Injuries force line-up changes for both sides! The hosts will miss Ben Pearson in midfield, likely seeing Tatsuki Seko and Wouter Burger paired in a double pivot. A back three of Wilmot, Rose, and Gibson could protect Johansson in goal. Upfront, Cannon should lead the line, supported by Moran and Koumas.
Leeds are also dealing with defensive absences. Firpo and Wober are out, and there are doubts regarding Pascal Struijk after missing the Oxford time due to a tight hamstring. With a busy festive calendar, Farke is unlikely to deviate away from a back four of Bogle, Rodon, Ampadu, and Byram. With Gruev injured, Rothwell and Tanaka will anchor midfield, while James and Solomon provide the width.
Stream games in safety! Get NordVPN with up to 73% off + 3 months free...
