Preview: Leicester vs Leeds

On Sky

Leicester go into Monday’s key clash with Leeds United with the thoughts that three points would almost seal mathematical promotion from League One.

Technically it’s not possible for Nigel Pearson’s men to be guranteed of their return to the Championship with a win on Monday, but should other results go their way, goal difference would all but seal it.

But first they face the imposing task of beating Simon Grayson’s Leeds, who require the points just as much with a play-off place in full sight.

Leeds find themselves in 5th place in League One after 8 wins in their last 11 games, also unbeaten in that period.

Vital Quotes:

Leeds manager Simon Grayson: ‘Both teams need the points on Monday. We’re still looking to cement our place in the Play-Offs and keep the pressure on Peterborough.

Leicester had a big result against Hereford on Saturday which will have given them a lift, but they will expect a result against us.

Anything can still happen in the division. All we can do is keep doing what we’re doing and see what happens after that.’

Leicester City Team News:

Manager Nigel Pearson is likely to begin with the same team which overcame Hereford on Friday.

Chris Powell and Max Gradel are among those pushing for starts however, and could potentially replace Joe Mattock and Bruno Berner respectively.

Player to watch: Matt Oakley

Scoring twice in his last two games for the Foxes, the captain will have to rally his side and lead by example to get a result against Grayson’s men. There’s no doubt he has the abilities to do it.

Leeds United Team News:

Luciano Becchio, Sam Sodje and Jermaine Beckford are all possible doubts for Leeds.

Becchio limped off at half-time in Leeds’ 1-0 win over Stockport, and Grayson will assess the striker before the game.

Despite Grayson’s apparent unwillingness to risk players, all three could start for Leeds with vital points at stake.

Player to watch: Jermaine Beckford

If fit, the striker can be absolutely lethal on his day. Disappointing at Elland Road earlier in the season when the two sides met after returning from injury, and the Foxes’ defence will be praying for a repeat at the Walkers.

Match Facts & Stats

Top Goalscorers:

Leicester: Matty Fryatt (29)

Leeds: Jermaine Beckford (31)

Goals scored:

Leicester: 76

Leeds: 70

Goals conceded:

Leicester: 37

Leeds: 47

www.oddschecker.com

Leicester 11/8

Draw 12/5

Leeds 9/4

Ref Watch:

Lee Mason

Match Prediction:

Leeds 1-1 Leicester

Next Fixtures:

Leicester: 18/04/09 – Southend (A)

Leeds: 18/04/09 – Tranmere (H)