Leeds United v Bristol City - the key man, the key battle, the odds and Graham Smyth's Verdict

Lee Johnson's Robins arrive at Elland Road in good form, having won four out of five, a defeat to Birmingham City the blip during their current purple patch.

BRISTOL CITY KEY MAN

Nahki Wells

The forward is off and running at Bristol City after his recent arrival on loan from Burnley and scored in midweek against Derby County. Bristol City boss Johnson has hailed him as the most clinical Robins striker he has seen so far at Ashton Gate, due to his finishing in training. Leeds know all about his finishing, he netted for QPR against them in January, albeit having handled the ball not once but twice before sticking the ball away. This season he has 14 Championship goals - 13 of which have come from inside the penalty area - and three assists from 21 appearances.

KEY BATTLE

Luke Ayling v Jamie Paterson

Paterson is in good form with three goals and an assist in his last six outings. Of his 35 dribbles in the Championship this season 21 have been successful. But Ayling's defensive performance at Brentford, against one of the division's most potent, pacy and dynamic attacks was excellent and he's shown real leadership in recent weeks. When Leeds have needed someone to make a big tackle or block at a key time, Ayling has been there. Keeping Paterson quiet will be key for Leeds if they're to replicate the solid defensive display from midweek.

ODDS

Leeds win 4/11

Draw 4

Bristol City 15-2

LAST TIME AT ELLAND ROAD

Saturday November 24 2018

Championship

Leeds 2-0 Bristol City (Roofe 69, Hernandez 86)

GRAHAM SMYTH'S VERDICT

A Leeds United win at Elland Road turns Tuesday's point at Brentford into an even better result. When the two sides met in the first game of the season and Leeds ran out comfortable winners, Lee Johnson spoke of the gulf in quality between them. The Whites looked far fitter and were ruthless in attack. The fitness advantage over teams remains evident but the ruthlessness has escaped them often since. It will be interesting to see if Bristol City have closed the gap in terms of quality and fitness. As ever, Leeds need only to take their chances and they'll be in with a very good chance of three points. Patrick Bamford is overdue a goal. But it's the other end of the pitch pulling focus. All eyes will be on Kiko Casilla in the Whites' goal. He's been at fault too frequently recently but retains the backing of his head coach and team-mates. A clean sheet would be a fine reward for all concerned.