Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Can Stoke City, sitting just four points above the relegation zone, hand Leeds United, with only Sheffield United ahead of them, a defeat? That would truly take a Christmas miracle.
Stoke City
Stoke City find themselves 19th even in the home table, having secured just three wins in 11 matches. They've only had the strength to beat Coventry City (1:0), Portsmouth (6:1), and Derby County (2:1), all direct competitors. Against a top-six side like Burnley, Stoke City suffered a 0:2 loss. In that match, the visitors did as they pleased (2.95 xG), while the hosts failed to mount a credible response (0.82 xG).
Leeds United
Leeds United do drop points away, but they lose only 20% of their away matches (2 out of 10). They were only bested by Millwall and Blackburn Rovers, both having solid defences, with both games ending (0:1). Moreover, these are teams currently in the top ten and they beat Leeds when they were on winning streaks. Stoke City, in contrast, are on an eight-match winless run, including four at home.
Stoke City vs Leeds United Prediction
Leeds United are clearly the favourites here, with strong prospects of taking all three points. We're counting on them and thus back a straightforward victory.
