Leeds United are set to face Stoke City on Boxing Day, match kicking off at 8pm live on Sky Sports.
It’s a big game for the Whites, as they aim to keep up their push for promotion to the Premier League.
Manager Daniel Farke and his team will have to watch their rivals play earlier in the day, which could make things tense.
Sheffield United take on Burnley, while Sunderland, sitting in fourth place, head to Blackburn Rovers.
These matches could shake up the Championship table before Leeds even play.
Stoke’s Struggles Could Help Leeds
Stoke City are having a tough time this season. They haven’t won in their last eight matches and are currently 19th in the table.
Leeds, on the other hand, are flying high in second place.
Stoke’s manager, Narcis Pelach, knows it won’t be easy. He’s expecting Leeds to dominate the game at the bet365 Stadium, and the pressure is on him to deliver results soon.
Despite Stoke’s poor form, some experts think Leeds might not have it all their way.
EFL expert Sam Parkin has predicted a narrow 1-0 win for the Whites, pointing out their recent struggles in away games.
Joe Rodon Boost for Leeds
Leeds have received some good news ahead of the match.
Joe Rodon, the star defender, has been cleared to play after suffering a head injury in the 4-0 win over Oxford United.
Rodon, who joined Leeds from Spurs in a £10million deal during the summer, had fans worried after picking up a nasty cut to his head.
But manager Daniel Farke has confirmed that Rodon is ready to go. Farke said: “He’s a warrior and he will be ready to go again.”
Rodon’s return is a massive boost for Leeds. He’s been a key player this season, starting in all 22 Championship games so far.
Injury Concerns for Leeds
While Rodon is fit, there are still some injury worries for Leeds. Max Wober is out with a knee injury and won’t feature against Stoke.
Junior Firpo and Ilia Gruev are also sidelined, but Farke will be relieved that the injury list isn’t too long during this busy festive period.
Can Leeds Keep the Momentum Going?
With a near full-strength squad and their sights set on the top spot, Leeds will be looking to take all three points against a struggling Stoke City side.
Fans will be hoping for a solid performance to keep their promotion dreams alive.
Boxing Day is set to be an exciting one for Leeds United supporters.
Will the Whites shine under the spotlight, or will Stoke manage to pull off a surprise? All eyes will be on the bet365 Stadium.
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