David Prutton predicts result of Leeds Championship clash v West Brom
David Prutton has predicted the outcome of the opening Championship clash between Leeds United and West Brom on Friday 18 August at Elland Road.
The Whites, who currently sit 19th in the league standings, look to kick-start their season with their first win in the Championship after a draw against Cardiff City on the opening day and a defeat to Birmingham City last weekend.
And Prutton providing his Championship predictions for Sky Sports News [17 August] ahead of the weekend’s games predicts Friday’s encounter to be a close game between the two teams in a 1-1 draw, despite things “not looking quite right at Leeds.”
He said: “It is already not looking quite right at Leeds. Players are leaving, some may not want to be there, injuries are already mounting up and results haven’t been there yet.
“West Brom got an important win over Swansea after losing at Blackburn on opening day. It is still early days to really see what their level is like this season, so I’ll go for a draw here.
“Prediction: 1-1.”
Crucial test for Farke
Despite the lack of urgency in the transfer market with just two signings completed so far, the expectation was that Leeds still had more than enough quality to make a fast start to the season.
However, Leeds certainly haven’t had a smooth ride with their preparations this summer, having lost as many as eleven players [Transfermarkt] who have gone on to seek pastures new because of the club’s Championship plight.
And Farke could well be set to lose a few more, following Jack Harrison’s departure with Wilfried Gnonto and Luis Sinisterra both refusing to play for the club after interest from elsewhere.
The German certainly hasn’t enjoyed the best of starts at Elland Road and Friday’s game presents a real test for Farke and his men to show their credentials, even if their squad isn’t to his liking just yet.
West Brom under Carlos Corberan are an incredibly difficult test for the Whites and if they’re not careful, they could certainly end the third round of Championship matches at the bottom of the table.
If that doesn’t give the 49ers the kick up the backside they need to let the cash fly in the market these next two weeks, then we simply don’t know what will.
In other Leeds United news, former Elland Road winger Jermaine Pennant shares his prediction on his former club’s chances in the Championship and drops a verdict on Daniel Farke.