David Prutton makes Leeds United v Ipswich Town prediction
David Prutton has predicted Leeds United to draw 2-2 with promotion hopefuls Ipswich Town as they look to close the gap between second and third.
Ipswich have claimed 52 points from 22 matches so far this season, with the Whites 10 points behind in third and level on points with Southampton.
Leeds’ tie on Saturday lunchtime against the Tractor Boys could prove to be a vital fixture in the course of their current campaign as Daniel Farke looks to lead the club back to the Premier League.
Prutton spoke on Sky Sports’ Championship Predictions podcast on Wednesday (20 December) about his thoughts on the upcoming game.
Falling behind
With Leicester City currently enduring the best start to a Championship campaign, the other teams in the division are having to play catch-up. Ipswich are just three points off the top of the table, with Leeds and Southampton the next closest teams being 10 points behind.
It is most likely that the Whites will need to battle it out for the play-off spots, rather than aim for automatic promotion. But a win against Ipswich could change the complexion of the feeling around Elland Road despite such a successful season already, claiming 42 points from a possible 66.
It could also help create a gap between Leeds and the other surrounding teams. The Saints are due to play a reinvigorated QPR team, while Hull City travel to Bristol City and West Brom face Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough side.
Leeds could finish the weekend seven points behind Ipswich, as well as 12 points beyond any team outside the play-off spots. It will be an incredibly difficult season, especially with the aim of promotion back to the Premier League.
But it is important to take one step at a time. Three points against Ipswich is a must, in what already feels like a must-win. A 2-2 draw would feel like a setback for Farke’s men at this point.
In other Leeds United news, Jesse Marsch has hit out at Andrea Radrizzani after what he did at Leeds.