Sky Sports pundit David Prutton has boldly predicted a winning start for Leeds United in their Championship opener against Stoke City at Elland Road on Sunday.
The former Leeds midfielder believes that the Yorkshire giants will win 3-2 against Garry Rowett’s side, and has surprisingly tipped left-back Barry Douglas to get the first goal – which is priced at 325/1 on SkyBet.
“Marcelo Bielsa’s move to Leeds is yet more proof that the Championship is transforming into one of the most desirable leagues in the world to manage in! Win, lose or draw, there’s no doubt that it will be a fascinating season at Elland Road,” said Prutton on the Sky Sports website.
“Stoke are the best-placed of all the relegated clubs to go straight back up with arguably the strongest squad in the league, and this really is Gary Rowett’s moment to shine. This could be a great game with plenty of goals, and I fancy Leeds to edge it.”
Leeds’ last meeting with Stoke was in 2006, with the Potters winning 3-1 on that occasion.
OPINION
Stoke are very much favourites to win the Championship title this season and earn an instant return to the Premier League after their relegation last time out. Rowett is a good appointment by the Potters and he has also made some decent signings like Benik Afobe from Wolves. It is really hard to agree with Prutton on this one as Leeds probably couldn’t have a harder first home game in their season. Bielsa is obviously a good manager with a very impressive CV, but is he going to be able to adapt to the Championship? He has made a smattering of signings, with Douglas and Patrick Bamford his only permanent additions to go alongside a few loans. For someone who likes his football played at a high tempo, surely he needs to add more strength in depth. Leeds’ defence is a huge concern too with only two recognised senior centre-backs on the books. It’s hard to see anything but a Stoke win in this game. Sorry Leeds fans.