Championship predictions: Can Leeds stop Leicester's promotion charge?

A win would ease relegation fears on both sides, send a signal that Leicester mean business in their pursuit of Premier League promotion via the Playoff route instead of traditional methods, and leave Leeds vulnerable having conceded five goals already in two games.

Leeds

This will be an epic encounter between two clubs that are both hoping to return to the Premier League at their first attempt, Leicester City appearing unbeatable while Leeds possessing both quality and ambition to challenge them.

Yorkshire are currently third in the Championship and have won four out of their last five matches, but struggle to break down teams on the road, which could prove problematic when facing off against Leicester's well-drilled squad.

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Leeds manager Daniel Farke will hope that Kelechi Iheanacho can step in for Jamie Vardy after the latter was injured during their win against Huddersfield Town, while Kasey McAteer may return for their visitors. Ricardo Pereira and Wout Faes could return from suspension as Ricardo Pereira returns along with Wout Faes - although Wilfred Ndidi might miss out due to muscle problems - while Leeds will evaluate Sam Byram, Joe Rodon and Crysencio Summerville after they all missed their last win due to minor injuries sustained against Huddersfield Town in October's win.

Leicester

Elland Road's boisterous environment creates one of the toughest environments to play in, something Leeds have had difficulty dealing with recently. That could prove problematic when they face an in-form Leicester squad this Saturday.

Win for the visitors would mark an unprecedented club record and narrow Daniel Farke's side's 14-point advantage to three. Additionally, this would help clear away relegation worries while providing breathing room in their attempt for promotion.

Enzo Maresca decided to rest Justin Faes against QPR last weekend, but is expected to reinstate him for this crucial fixture. Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak may continue together in attack from the bench or they could start alongside each other and try scoring goals to keep Leeds in play-off contention. Additionally, Marc Roca may make his Leicester debut during this matchup.

Birmingham

Leicester City have been virtually perfect this season and, barring any unexpected drops in form, are strong favorites to return to the Premier League. But in their match against Leeds - who have won four out of their last five Championship games - a slip up may happen that would endanger their hopes for promotion back into England's premier division.

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Daniel Farke's side have an enviable goal difference and currently rank fifth in attacking non-penalty xG per game this season, yet their finishing could use some help - an experienced striker could provide this boost.

Callum Doyle, Dennis Praet and Yunus Akgun have been sidelined with injuries for the visitors; however Enzo Maresca will field his strongest side against Southampton in this crucial game.

Ipswich

After an extended quiet spell, Ayling finally finds space to shoot long range. Meslier makes a superb save to deny him and maintain high intensity within their team in search of opportunities to score goals.

Ipswich enjoys an ideal location near the Suffolk coast, featuring lush parks and an exciting waterfront. Its historic town centre contains wonky Tudor buildings and medieval churches from its Tudor period; grand Victorian mansions offer respite; while its cathedral boasts its famed medieval carvings as major draws.

Home side's defence has been their Achilles Heel, but they possess enough firepower to avoid relegation. Still, their position remains tenuous as they sit one point above the relegation zone and must hope Everton draw against Bournemouth in order to remain safe; otherwise even victory against Tottenham may not guarantee them survival; assistance would likely need from other teams too if any slip-up occurs during these final five games.