Leeds collected 10 points in the opening 7 rounds which isn’t bad, but in my opinion their displays are over the recent results. They lost in local derby (vs. Barnsley 2-5) in the game that came just 3 days after very hard home encounter against Swansea (2-1, after 0-1 at half time). In the previous round, they overplayed Doncaster, also on the road, but drew at the end. They’ve been showing a plenty of fighting spirit. Two times came from behind, but they’re also the only side in Championship that committed 100 fouls. They should continue the trend from League One when Elland was a fortress and in any game at home, Leeds will be favorite. Simon Grayson has no injury concerns and it will be first time when he can pick from a full squad. Loanee left-back, George McCartney, will probably has his debut.
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Blades sacked his manager, Kevin Blackwell, after home defeat vs. QPR 0-3. Harsh decision, in my opinion, as Rangers seem to be the strongest league club. And United this year won’t be able to repeat the ambitions from previous seasons (play-off). Blackwell’s successor, Gary Speed (ex Leeds player), has been trying to implement his own style of play. Which means battle in whole game, very few goals conceded (three clean sheets in five games), but also very few goals scored (3 goals in those 5). They have lots of problems in creating the chances and they really suffer with the absence of Darius Henderson in the attacking line. Skipper and central-defender, Chris Morgan, is still sidelined. I think their only advantage will be history that says Blades haven’t lost vs. Leeds in the last seven encounters.
Leeds will start aggressively and will be keeping that pace during all 90 minutes. I expect their good performances finally change into good results. Blades carry the same style of play and that’s the way how Leeds like opposition to play. Sheffield also obviously lack in quality this season. Blackwell’s departure was a big mistake, Speed won’t stay too long. Home win with some caution.
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Bet: Leeds -0.25
Odd: 1.82 Pinnacle
Stake: 9/10
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