Daniel Farke will be looking to secure a ninth Championship win of the season on Sunday afternoon when Leeds United take on Swansea City in North Wales.
The start of the busy Christmas period starts on Sunday when Leeds face Swansea, the first of five games over the next 16 days. Leeds then face Luton, Blackburn, Derby and Middlesbrough in quick succession.
Leeds are currently a point better off than they were last season, only two off the top instead of 11 at this stage last season. LeedsUnited.News predict Farke’s men will pick up 10 points from the next five games.
One advantage Leeds will have is Farke’s experience in the Championship and his ability to get sides to the Premier League. The German gaffer will know how to manoeuvre Leeds through the tricky schedule.
The return to action against Swansea hands Leeds the chance to go top of the table. Sunderland are without Romaine Mundle and Alan Browne, with the key duo ruled out until the new year through injury.
They go to Millwall with Patrick Roberts, Jobe Bellingham and Trai Hume suspended, too. Second-placed Sheffield United face Coventry on Saturday, with Frank Lampard in advanced talks to take over as boss.
Farke will be confident of Sunday’s trip to Swansea, not least because of his record against the Welsh side. Six appearances as a manager against them throughout his career, Farke has clocked up five victories.
An average of 2.5 points a game against Swansea, Farke has faced Joel Piroe, Dan James and Joe Rodon’s old side twice with Leeds and four times as Norwich City manager throughout the last decade.
A total of 13 goals scored against Swansea in those six matches against the Welsh side, seven of which came with Leeds last season. James, Georginio Rutter and Piroe scored in a 3-1 victory at Elland Road.
Then, away from home, Leeds produced one of their best results of the season to win 4-0 with goals coming from Crysencio Summerville, Piroe again and a brace from the rejuvenated Wilfried Gnonto.
Leeds will be hoping Piroe and Gnonto can continue their form against Swansea on Sunday with the duo likely to start in Wales, though it would mean that Mateo Joseph dropping out of the starting line-up.
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