Championship frontrunners Leeds United are aiming to maintain their top position as they head to Vicarage Road for a Good Friday clash against Watford.
Under the guidance of Daniel Farke, Leeds have successfully narrowed the gap with Leicester City, securing the leading position in the English second division.
Despite their current top spot, with Leicester trailing only by goal difference and having a game in hand, Leeds cannot afford complacency.
Watford, meanwhile, finds themselves struggling in the mid-table, more threatened by relegation than hopeful for playoff contention. Their recent form has been poor, with only one win in their last five league matches. They now face a Leeds team full of determination and confidence.
Home advantage hasn’t been beneficial for Watford, who haven’t won at home in league play since November 2023, spanning nine matches. However, a recent victory against Birmingham City might boost their morale, even though Leeds presents a significantly tougher challenge.
Watford Team News & Tactics
Watford’s recent performances, particularly at home, have been disappointing. With Vicarage Road no longer a stronghold, the team saw Valerien Ismael replaced by Tom Cleverley as manager.
Despite the managerial change, Watford will miss Wesley Hoedt due to suspension, and Kwadwo Baah and Jeremy Ngakia due to injuries.
The expected lineup includes a 4-2-3-1 formation with Daniel Bachmann in goal, protected by a back four of Ryan Andrews, Ryan Porteous, Mattie Pollock, and James Morris.
The midfield pivot will likely consist of Edo Kayembe and Tom Dele-Bashiru, with an attacking trio of Yaser Asprilla, Ismael Kone, and Giorgi Chakvetadze supporting Emmanuel Dennis, the match-winner against Birmingham.
Leeds United team news
Daniel Farke’s Leeds has shown impressive form, positioning them as the top contender in the league. With Leicester City right behind them with a game in hand, Leeds is focused on extending their lead.
Injuries include Connor Roberts and possibly Junior Firpo, with both Pascal Struijk and Stuart Dallas confirmed as unavailable. Daniel James’s recent performance and Georginio Rutter’s absence due to hernia surgery might influence team selection.
Leeds is expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation with Illan Meslier as goalkeeper.
The defense comprises Archie Gray, Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon, and Sam Byram, with Ilia Gruev and Glen Kamara in midfield. Wilfried Gnonto and Crysencio Summerville will take the wings, Joel Piroe as the playmaker, and Patrick Bamford as the striker.
