Sky Sports host predicts scoreline in Leeds United showdown v Birmingham City
Leeds United are set for another disappointing result on the weekend in their clash against Birmingham City, according to Sky Sports host David Prutton.
Following their draw to Cardiff City, Prutton has predicted Daniel Farke’s side to only earn another point and has tipped the Whites to draw 1-1 away at St Andrew’s.
He claims that the optimism around Birmingham could see them have a good season, but feels Leeds won’t get their first win of the season.
Prutton said: “There is so much more optimism around Birmingham City than we’ve seen in years. It really is terrific to see a club back on the up in all aspects after it has suffered a turbulent time.
“They, like Leeds, began the Championship season with a draw. They both got a Carabao Cup win in midweek but will want to get that first victory in the Championship, too. But I’m backing a draw here.”
Disappointing
While Birmingham look to have a good season in the Championship under the guidance of John Eustace, Leeds will hope their second game of the season will be more rewarding than Prutton suggests.
Farke’s blushes were saved by Crysencio Summerville with a last-gasp equaliser against Cardiff City last weekend (6 August), but the German will hope that his side can take all three points this time.
However, with Summerville and captain Liam Cooper both unavailable for a significant time, Farke has a tougher job on his hands. He will hope new signing Joe Rodon can add some more defensive solidity, should he start.
Leeds will be aiming for promotion this season, so last weekend’s result will hopefully be rectified and the Whites can finally get some significant points on the board. Their midweek win against Shrewsbury would have helped boost a bit of confidence in players, especially standout youngster Archie Gray who started both fixtures.
However, amid the ongoing Willy Gnonto situation, Farke is very likely to be without one of his most dangerous attackers. Sky Sports reported (10 August) that the 19-year-old has made himself unavailable for selection against Birmingham, as he did in the Shrewsbury match.
Despite Gnonto’s absence and the growing injury list, Leeds should be confident as they walk out onto the pitch on Saturday but a strong performance is needed.
In other Leeds United news, Fabrizio Romano claims that the first stage of a departing Whites star is complete as he returns to the Premier League.