BBC Sport journalist shares ‘serious’ Leeds United Championship promotion verdict
Leeds United are “serious contenders” to be automatically promoted this season, according to BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty.
The West Yorkshire club currently occupy third place in the Championship table, with 42 points from their 22 matches so far.
Leicester City top the standings with 55 points following their relegation last season, while Ipswich Town sit in second place with 52 points.
On a BBC Sport Q&A, McNulty was asked the question: “Ipswich are finally flying high again after many a year, do you think we can sustain this and go up automatically? Do you think Leeds/Saints will catch us? If we do get promoted, do you think we could do a better job than the three that went up this season?”
The journalist replied: “I see no reason why Ipswich Town cannot sustain their form but the test will come as pressure grows, expectation increases and the big prize comes into sight.
“Leeds United and Southampton will be serious contenders but what we can say for certain is that manager Kieran McKenna is calm, composed and has done an outstanding job.
“Ipswich are an extremely attractive side with a great opportunity to reach the Premier League. As for next season. Who knows? Let’s see what this season brings first.”
Tough test
As is the case every season in the Championship, it is a very difficult achievement to get promoted to the Premier League.
Leeds perhaps know that more than most, but they have been given a mountain to climb this season in particular given the quality of the opposition.
Leicester are looking very strong after their relegation from the top flight last season, while Ipswich are hot on their heels.
But the Whites are also looking dangerous under Daniel Farke, with his attackers scoring plenty of goals this season, a necessity to be successful in the division.
The defenders have also impressed, but it is a long campaign, and the players will need to maintain their efforts for many months to come.
Automatic promotion is, of course, the aim for Farke and his squad this season, but the Whites should also fancy their chances of making it back to the big time via the play-offs, if that is where they end up come the final match.
In other Leeds United news, one Whites star has sent a message to Amadou Onana after he helped Everton defeat Burnley 2-0 at Turf Moor.