David Prutton has had his take on Leeds United and Southampton getting promoted back to the Premier League.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post (2 March), the Sky Sports pundit believes that Leeds can close the six-point lead Leicester have over them.
He also backs Russell Martin to put Southampton back on track after a few difficult results recently.
He said: “Six points is absolutely surmountable and I think it leaves not only second spot but the top spot wide open too. From us covering it and looking at it that is a wonderful thing. Leeds have got to keep themselves honest. Southampton have had a dodgy week but knowing Russell Martin like I do he will be absolutely hell bent on putting that right.
“There will be changes afoot between now and then and I will be intrigued to see what that final top two looks like. We are now heading towards single digit games in a season in which Leeds have started slowly but my God have they gone through the gears and they deservedly sit in second.
“I fancy Leeds to do it this year and they got used to Premier League games during three years back in the top flight. But you can’t get too comfortable with Premier League fixtures because it can bite you on the bum which is what it has done.”
Leeds United appear favourites for the Championship
With Leeds’ resurgence under Daniel Farke and the impressive form of key players like Archie Gray, the exit-linked Crysencio Summerville and Joe Rodon, the team’s ambitions may naturally shift towards targeting the top spot in the Championship rather than settling for just a top-two finish.
Farke’s influence has seen the squad gel together, playing attractive and effective football.
The six-point gap between Leeds and the current league leaders, Leicester, appears within erach, especially considering the momentum the team has built.
Furthermore, with Southampton facing challenges, Leeds might see this as an opportunity to seize the top position.
Martin’s determination to steer Southampton back on track could introduce a competitive edge, but Leeds, with their current form and depth, seem poised to challenge for the top spot.
As the season progresses, the focus within the Leeds camp could naturally shift towards aiming for the Championship title rather than settling for automatic promotion.
In other Leeds United news, a player made his mind up to leave the Whites months ago as Phil Hay shares an update from Elland Road.
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