This weekend, Leeds United will face Luke Ayling’s Middlesbrough at The Riverside in the first of three Championship games remaining this season, with the race for the top two extremely tight.
Leeds are third after one win in five games, losing to Coventry City and Blackburn Rovers. The Whites are one point behind Leicester, who have a game in hand in second. Two from Ipswich, both playing 43.
Boro are unbeaten in nine games, with five wins. Even though Michael Carrick’s team is no longer in contention for the play-offs, they have been in terrific form. A formidable opponent in peak form, with nothing to lose.
However, Leeds will benefit from the fact that Luke Ayling and Sam Greenwood will not be available for Carrick’s side, since they are both on loan at Boro from Leeds. However, Leeds are not located at Elland Road.
Luke Ayling discusses if Leeds will be promoted this season.
Leeds must win the last three games in order to recoup some lost points. There is a lot going on behind the scenes, including Stuart Dallas’ retirement and the Player of the Season accolades.
Ayling attended the awards last night despite the fact that he is on loan at Boro. Last night, Ethan Ampadu earned the Player of the Season award, while Crysencio Summerville got the Players’ Player of the Season.
Ayling was also recognized, receiving a Special Achievement Award alongside Liam Cooper and Dallas: “It’s time for these boys to show what they’re capable of; they’re a fantastic team. I’m very sure they’ll be promoted.”
How do Leeds’ fixtures compare with those of Ipswich and Leicester?
So Leeds travel to Middlesbrough before facing QPR, who are often a bogey team for the Whites. On the final day of the season, Leeds host Southampton, who are only three points behind Leeds and have a game in hand.
Leicester still has four games to play, having lost four of their previous six. They have two incredibly tough games coming up, both at The King Power, against West Brom and Southampton. Then Preston and Blackburn.
Leeds has suffered defeats against two teams this season. The Foxes have had an extremely challenging run of games. Ipswich are perhaps the team with the best run in. They travel to Hull and Coventry, which will be difficult. Next, Huddersfield.
