Horse Racing analyst Will Smith has had a good look at all this weekend's ante-post markets, and provides a 7/1 EW selection in the Grade 2 novices' chase at Newbury on Friday.
In a much-anticipated Championship clash, Leicester City host Leeds United, with the former looking to extend their lead at the top of the standings while the latter aims to inch closer to the second-place spot held by Ipswich Town. The stakes are high in this fixture, and we delve into the key factors that could influence the outcome.
Leicester City vs Leeds United Betting Tips | ||
---|---|---|
Selection | Odds | Bookie |
Leicester City | 11/10 | ![]() |
2-1 | 8/1 | ![]() |
At the start of the 2023-24 season, expectations were high that both Leicester and Leeds would be vying for automatic promotion. Ipswich Town’s surge has disrupted this narrative, as they now lead Leeds by a significant nine-point margin. However, Leicester have exceeded all expectations and currently occupy the top position in the league.
Leicester’s remarkable form has seen them clinch victories in 13 of their last 14 matches, with their most recent triumph coming against Queens Park Rangers. Notably, they’ve maintained an impressive record of not conceding more than once in any Championship fixture this season, having only let in eight goals in 14 games. In contrast, their attacking prowess has seen them net 29 goals, the joint-highest in the league.
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Leeds United have seen a resurgence in recent matches, with their most recent three fixtures yielding seven goals, including a notable 4-1 victory over Huddersfield Town. Despite a hiccup in the form of a 1-0 loss to Stoke City, they have managed to emerge as the best-performing team outside of the automatic promotion spots, especially after a challenging start to the season under new manager Daniel Farke.
However, Leeds will need to improve their away record, as they’ve already suffered three defeats on the road. The performance of key players like Joel Piroe and Crysencio Summerville will be crucial in their quest to secure the runners-up position, with the latter stepping up impressively with five goals and three assists in just five appearances.
Leicester City’s manager, Enzo Maresca, is expected to make changes for this match, with players like Ricardo Pereira and Wout Faes likely to return to the defence. The choice between Kelechi Iheanacho and Jamie Vardy in the attack remains to be seen, as does the decision on the flank where Kasey McAteer could make a return after recovering from a hamstring issue. However, Wilfred Ndidi’s absence due to a muscle problem may allow Cesare Casadei to retain his place in midfield.
Leeds United will assess Sam Byram, Joe Rodon, and Summerville for fitness concerns. Of these, Rodon, dealing with a hamstring problem, is unlikely to feature, with Liam Cooper ready to step in as his replacement.
Given Leeds’ attacking potential, they have the capability to pose a challenge to the runaway leaders. However, it’s difficult to bet against Leicester, who may opt to remain patient and capitalise on a late opportunity to secure the win.
Prediction: Leicester City 2-1 Leeds United
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