Micah Richards and Gary Lineker have both discussed whether they think Leeds United could still finish in second place in the Championship after last Friday’s 2-0 defeat to QPR.
Going into last Friday’s clash, Leeds had the chance to pile the pressure on Ipswich Town. The opportunity to go four clear of Kieran McKenna‘s side at Loftus Road with a win over a relegation-threatened QPR.
But in a bizarre twist of events, Marti Cifuentes’ side produced arguably the result of their season with a 4-0 win over Daniel Farke’s men. Leeds looked tired and unable to cope with the pressure of promotion.
The defeat saw Ipswich have the chance to leapfrog Leeds into second but they missed out on Saturday, only managing a 3-3 draw at Hull. Ipswich still boast a game in hand over Leeds as they face Coventry.
All eyes will be on Tuesday as McKenna’s men go to Coventry and if they avoid defeat, then they will go above Leeds. If Ipswich lose, then Leeds will need to beat Southampton on Saturday. to retain second.
Gary Lineker and Micah Richards discussed the race for second on the latest episode of their podcast The Rest Is Football. Leicester fan Lineker said he felt sorry for Leeds while Richards said it is “devastating”.
Both Richards and Lineker feel as if second place is now beyond the Yorkshire club. Here is what they said:
Lineker and Richards on Leeds’ chances of finishing in second
Lineker said, feeling sympathy for the Whites: “I feel a bit for Leeds fans because I know what it’s been like for Leicester. You have to get back in the Premier League and Ipswich are now favourites to do that.
“Leeds look like they may drift into the playoffs. Micah’s head slumps to the ground,” he added. Richards replied: “Don’t want playoffs. Anything can happen in the playoffs. It’s devastating. So close yet so far.”
Do Leeds stand any chance of finishing in second place?
All eyes are on Tuesday night as McKenna’s Ipswich take on Coventry away from home. If Ipswich avoid defeat then they overtake Leeds into second ahead of the final weekend of the Championship season.
But if Ipswich win, or draw, they go above Leeds. Coventry are a solid side but they have nothing to play for with the play-offs beyond their reach. But they showed they can push anyone far, ask Man United.
Ipswich beat Coventry in the reverse fixture but only 2-1 at Portman Road. There is a chance that Mark Robins’ side pick up a win. If so, Leeds then need to beat Southampton at Elland Road on Saturday.
