Birmingham City take on Leeds United on Friday night in the Championship, and HITC pundits give their predictions on the likely outcome.
Birmingham City 0-2 Leeds United
Both sides recorded wins last weekend but Birmingham were facing a struggling Wolves side. Leeds are far tougher opposition and they will be disappointed with anything less than three points. It’s hard to not see Chris Wood scoring again in this one.
Leeds United’s Chris Wood
Birmingham City 1-2 Leeds United
Zola’s side looked much improved in their recent outing against rivals, Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, Leeds United have been incredibly hard to beat this season and I fully expect them to grind out yet another win here, as Monk’s side push on to cement a play-off spot.
Birmingham City manager Gianfranco Zola
Birmingham City 2-2 Leeds United
Gianfranco Zola has had a torrid time in charge of Birmingham City since replacing Gary Rowett earlier in the season, but the Blues did pick up all 3 points last time out against Wolves. Leeds have a mixed away record this season, with 7 wins and 7 defeats, and they may have to settle for a point at St Andrews.
Birmingham City 1-2 Leeds United
Birmingham have what it takes to hold promotion chasing Leeds but I think the Whites will fight hard for those one and hold out for the narrowest of victories. Garry Monk’s side will know the importance of maintaining their promotion push and cannot afford to let points slip at this stage of the campaign.
Birmingham City 0-2 Leeds United
The Blues may have finally recorded their first away win under Gianfranco Zola last weekend, beating rivals Wolves at Molineux, but they are up against a different beast in Leeds. The Whites got a crucial win against Sheffield Wednesday recently, and will have too much quality and confidence for the home side.
Leeds manager Garry Monk
Birmingham City 0-2 Leeds United
Last week’s Wolves win showed signs of life from Zola’s Birmingham, but Leeds will be buoyed by their own success against Sheffield Wednesday and should be good for three points once more. The Whites are strong at the back and are always likely to pick teams off.
Lukas Jutkiewicz of Birmingham City celebrates with Craig Gardner (left) and Maikel Kieftenbeld
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
