Leeds will be targeting a quick-fire return to the Premier League, but Cardiff will represent the first obstacle in their bid for promotion at Elland Road on Sunday afternoon.
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Last season was rather chastening by all accounts for Leeds. But they will be hoping that new manager Daniel Farke, who put pen to paper a four-year deal earlier in the summer, can breathe fresh life into his charges.
Keeping hold of their blue-chip players remains a challenge, and there has been mounting speculation over the futures of Willy Gnonto, Tyler Adams, and Jack Harrison.
As far as Cardiff is concerned, they can’t be much worse than they were last season, although they managed to keep their heads above water.
This should be an intriguing contest, but can Cardiff cause an upset? I have scoured the markets and picked out a couple of tips for you to chew over.
Honours even in a thrilling contest
It has been a few seasons since Leeds played in the Championship, but there have been plenty of compelling clashes between them and Cardiff over the years.
There were even two FA Cup third-round clashes earlier this year, as the original fixture ended a draw (2-2) before Leeds romped to a resounding 5-2 victory in the replay at home.
Farke has several injury issues to contend with, which includes Stuart Dallas, Patrick Bamford, and Junior Firpo, who are all doubts to face the Bluebirds.
Interestingly, the past four Championship encounters between Leeds and Cardiff have seen 17 goals plundered, so it could well be another frenzied affair.
And it could be one that ends up with a share of the spoils. To kick things off, I have gone with a draw & BTTS for my first tip, which is available at a tempting 5/1 with bet365.
Luke Ayling to pop up with a goal
Last season, Leeds struggled defensively, shipping in 78 goals in the Premier League, more than any other side.
Luke Ayling, of course, will have been at fault, but he will want to start this season with a clean slate, or rather a clean sheet.
In pre-season, Leeds chalked up back-to-back wins against Nottingham Forest and Hearts, and against the latter, Ayling found the target.
The defender contributed two goals for the Yorkshire outfit last season, and he will play a big part this season if Leeds are going to make a concerted push.
He could well get on the scoresheet against Cardiff, and William Hill has obliged with a match special that piqued my interest.
To round things off, I have gone with Ayling to net with a right-footed shot that is trading at an eye-catching 12/1.
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