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The last time Leeds United met Bristol City in the Championship, it was away at Ashton Gate in a match that saw Leeds throw away a commanding 2–0 lead to the home side. United were well on their way to their first win of the season until their lack of concentration saw them capitulate, conceding 2 goals late on with the game ending 2-2.
New managers
Since that game both clubs have sacked their managers. Steve Evans has replaced Uwe Rosler at Leeds and Bristol City are yet to replace the departed Steve Cotterill. Bristol are currently headed up by former Leeds defender John Pemberton. The Robins’ Interim Manager made 53 appearances for the Whites during the Wilkinson era. So far both teams have had a mixed season to date, and it seems Bristol have more to play for as they fight to stay in the league in their first season back in the Championship.
A morale-boosting victory is required
Leeds fans, meanwhile, will be hoping the motivational skills of Evans will be in evidence as they fight their own battle, a battle to stay in contention for a seemingly ever distant play-off spot and keep aloft of the drop zone. Although it was on the cards for a while, some fans will be still in mourning after seeing one of their brightest young talents, Sam Byram, switch allegiance to the East End of London and West Ham United. A much needed victory is required from Leeds in front of their home fans.
Form
Leeds undefeated run of 8 games came to an end against Ipswich, and they now haven’t won in 5 league games. They have drawn 3 and lost their last 2 outings, conceding 8 and scoring 5.
From their last five, Bristol have drawn 1, lost 3, and won on their last appearance. That victory was against Championship leaders Middlesborough. City put Boro to the sword scoring the only goal of the game in the 90th minute, so there's another clear warning in that for United. In comparison to Leeds, the Robins have conceded 8 and scored 3.
Head-to-head
There have been 14 meetings at Elland Road between the two sides. Of those games, 2 have been draws, Bristol have won 3, and Leeds have taken the spoils 9 times.
Players to watch
Lewie Coyle is hoping to fill void the left by the departure of Sam Byram. The former under-21 team Captain, who was once rumoured to have been approached by Barcelona and Chelsea, is in need of first team experience and hopes to feature. This player is one to watch for the future.
Mustapha Carayol has shown much promise since his loan move from league leaders Middlesborough. More is expected from him as he gains match sharpness and a prominent spot in the lineup.
French midfielder Toumani Diagouraga was this week's addition with the Byram transfer cash, and he is expected to be available to play, though his lack of practice with the squad makes that doubtful. We'll see if Evans gambles on throwing "Dave" in there so soon.
Bristol's top scorer Jonathan Kodjia was a £2m signing from French Ligue 1 side Angers in the summer. He has netted 10 times this season in all competitions and will be hoping to add to that tally v Leeds.
Aaron Wilbraham, the Robins Captain, is also capable of finding the net. The 6 ft 3 inch striker has netted 6 times this season and, if fit, will prove a handful for the Whites defence.
WHAT
Leeds United v Bristol City
Skybet Championship League
WHO
Leeds United
Silvestri, Wootton, Bellusci, Cooper, Taylor, Dallas, Bridcutt, Murphy, Cook, Carayol, Doukara.
Subs: Peacock-Farrell, Coyle, Bamba, Adeyemi, Phillips, Antenucci, Wood.
Bristol City
O'Donnell, Ayling, Flint, Baker, Bryan, Burns, Gladwin, Pack, Smith, Freeman, Kodjia.
Subs: O'Leary, Little, Pearce, Reid, Wagstaff, Agard, Wilbraham.
WHERE
Elland Road, Leeds
WHEN
7:00am PT / 10:00am ET / 3:00pm BT
ODDS
Leeds United 11/10
Draw 23/10
Bristol City 13/5
PREDICTION
1-0 Leeds with the much-needed, morale-boosting win.
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