Preview: Leeds United vs. Middlesbrough - prediction, team news, lineups

Leeds United play host to Middlesbrough on Saturday afternoon looking to extend their unbeaten run in the Championship to six matches.

At a time when the Yorkshire giants occupy third position in the standings, Boro sit three points adrift of the playoffs despite an inconsistent run of form.

Match preview

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Since their standout victory away at Leicester City, it is fair to say that Leeds have struggled to reach the heights of that particular performance.

However, Daniel Farke's side have still managed to deliver seven points from fixtures against Plymouth Argyle, Rotherham United and Swansea City.

Leeds were also adrift to the latter in just one minute in midweek before battling back to record a 3-1 victory - their sixth successive win at Elland Road.

They also remain the only team in the Championship who are yet to lose on familiar territory, conceding just seven goals in the process.

Nevertheless, Leeds still trail second-placed Ipswich Town by seven points, keeping the pressure on their shoulders ahead of welcoming one of the dark horses for promotion.

After an abysmal start to the season, Boro have generally been terrific since September 23, winning eight of their 11 matches to surge up the table.

The international break came at the wrong time, as Boro followed success over Leicester with an away defeat at Bristol City, yet they were able to bounce back in style in midweek.

Michael Carrick's side powered to a 4-0 triumph over Preston North End, netting three times in the opening 37 minutes to seize full control of the contest.

While their away form has been an issue in 2023-24, Boro had been on a five-game undefeated run on their travels before losing out at Ashton Gate on Saturday.

Team News

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While Farke has the option of sticking with the same Leeds XI, he may consider alterations given the quick turnaround.

Liam Cooper and Junior Firpo are both options in defence, while Wilfried Gnonto may be considered to replace Daniel James.

Although Djed Spence has recently returned to the squad after injury, the right-back will not be considered for a start in this match.

Having impressed in an unfamiliar central-defensive role, Rav Van den Berg looks set to remain in that role for Boro at Elland Road.

Matt Clarke may soon become an option after a long-term injury, but he will not be relied upon for this game despite his comeback appearance versus Preston.

The extra day's rest may lead to Carrick selecting the same team, but Sam Greenwood is ineligible to face his parent club.

Leeds United possible starting lineup:

Meslier; Gray, Rodon, Cooper, Byram; Ampadu, Kamara; James, Piroe, Summerville; Rutter

Middlesbrough possible starting lineup:

Dieng; Dijksteel, Van den Berg, McNair, Bangura; Howson, Barlaser; Jones, Crooks, Rogers; Lath

We say: Leeds United 2-2 Middlesbrough

Many will argue that these are two of the best teams in the Championship and we are not going to argue. It leads us to predict a thrilling encounter, one which may go back and forth before they settle on a share of the spoils, a result that would suit neither team.

For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.