The race for automatic promotion is hotting up as the business-end of the season nears, with Leeds United dropping more points against Swansea City on the weekend.
Illan Meslier was at fault once again as he dropped a corner at the feet of Harry Darling, before allowing Zan Vipotnik’s hopeful shot go through him on the angle. It meant Leeds could only manage a 2-2 draw.
All week, pundits have speculated as to whether Meslier will remain between the sticks come Saturday when Leeds go to Luton. Aidy White thinks Meslier needs to be taken out of the firing line against Luton.
One win in five and six points from a possible 15 has seen Leeds go from five clear of Sheffield United, to two behind Chris Wilder’s side. They’re level on points with Burnley, who are unbeaten since November 3.
Sam Parkin predicts who finishes in first, second and third
With seven games left to go, it is anybody’s guess. Leeds are the side in the worst form, but have the best run-in and the added advantage of Sheffield United and Burnley having to play each other on April 21.
Gary Lineker thinks it is a “huge” factor in the race for the top two. Tim Sherwood backed Leeds to remain in second behind Sheffield United and now, Football League icon Sam Parkin has predicted the top three.
“I fancied Sheffield United from the outset. I’m going to go for them, heart over head, and I’d stick with Leeds. I think they’ll tail off in the final knockings of the season. Sheffield United pip them to the title.”
How many points do Leeds United need to finish in top two
Following the draw against Swansea, Farke broke character and said Leeds will definitely be playing Premier League football next season. Confidence, or a man trying to convince a fanbase of promotion.
Ultimately, it showed weakness. It showed cracks in his otherwise perfect armour. Last season, Leeds became the first club this century not to be promoted with a total of 90 points, in the Championship.
This season, it looks likely that all three sides will reach 90 points but one of them will have to enter the play-offs. A mid-nineties total will see clubs promoted, unless all three experience a sudden tail-off.
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