Easter weekend marks a crucial point in the English Football League Championship season. With only four games remaining, much is still to be decided. Promotion spots are still open, playoff positions are not yet secured, and several teams are fighting to stay in the Championship and avoid relegation to League One. In fact, around 17 of the 24 teams in the league are involved in one of these key battles.
The upcoming games feature important clashes, including a Midlands derby between Coventry City and West Bromwich Albion, which is vital for playoff hopes. Luton Town is fighting against relegation and will play Derby County away, followed by a home game against Bristol City, who are also aiming for the top six. Millwall hopes to break into the playoff spots, and Plymouth Argyle is trying to escape relegation. Here`s a preview of what to watch for in the Championship.
1. Automatic Promotion Still Up for Grabs?
Leeds United seems to be in a strong position for automatic promotion. They have played excellent football this season, scoring significantly more goals than any other team. Their defense is also strong. Despite the league`s competitiveness, Leeds has shown a level of dominance close to top European teams. Their expected goal difference is much higher than any other team in the league.
Leeds appears ready for the Premier League, but they have faltered in similar situations before. They are currently five points ahead with four games left. The manager, Daniel Farke, is trying to keep the team focused, emphasizing the need to manage emotions and energy during this critical period. He mentioned the importance of balance to maintain energy for the final push, speaking before their game against Oxford.
Leeds will be watching to see if Burnley has overtaken them and if Sheffield United has closed the gap for the top two. Sheffield United has lost their last three games and is five points behind the automatic promotion spots, with a significantly worse goal difference. They need to win against Cardiff and their remaining games.
Sheffield United`s manager emphasizes embracing pressure, stating it`s expected at this level. They need to perform well, but even that might not be enough if Leeds and Burnley continue their strong form. Burnley has been unbeaten since early November. However, Sheffield United has a chance to close the gap when they play Burnley on Easter Monday.
The Race for Promotion
| Team | P | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Leeds United | 42 | 53 | 88 |
| 2 | Burnley | 42 | 44 | 88 |
| 3 | Sheffield United | 42 | 24 | 83 |
| 4 | Sunderland | 42 | 19 | 76 |
| 5 | Bristol City | 42 | 9 | 64 |
| 6 | Coventry City | 42 | 5 | 63 |
| 7 | West Bromwich Albion | 42 | 12 | 60 |
| 8 | Middlesbrough | 42 | 10 | 60 |
| 9 | Millwall | 42 | 0 | 60 |
| 10 | Blackburn Rovers | 42 | 0 | 56 |
2. Playoff Form is Key
Sheffield United`s recent form is a concern for their playoff chances. Momentum is crucial at this stage of the season, and they seem to be lacking it. Sunderland`s form has dipped slightly since earlier in the season, but they look secure in fourth place. The teams below them are competing for the remaining two playoff spots.
Bristol City currently holds a playoff spot but faces a tough game against Luton Town. Coventry has shown strong form recently and is considered a serious contender if they reach the playoffs. However, their recent results have been inconsistent. Middlesbrough`s form is also unpredictable. Millwall`s recent win has put them in playoff contention. A win against Blackburn could significantly hurt Blackburn`s playoff hopes. Millwall`s upcoming home games against Norwich and Swansea could provide a good opportunity to secure a playoff spot.
3. Relegation Battle Intensifies
The bottom of the Championship table is very tight. Relegation is a real threat for several teams. Preston North End and Queens Park Rangers are slightly above the relegation zone but are not entirely safe. Their game against each other is crucial.
QPR`s manager, Marti Cifuentes, stated that while 50 points often ensures safety, it`s not mathematically certain yet, and they are aiming to win their remaining games.
The Foot of the Championship
| Team | P | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | Queens Park Rangers | 42 | -6 | 50 |
| 16 | Preston North End | 42 | -8 | 49 |
| 17 | Oxford United | 42 | -17 | 48 |
| 18 | Stoke City | 42 | -11 | 47 |
| 19 | Portsmouth | 42 | -16 | 46 |
| 20 | Hull City | 42 | -9 | 45 |
| 21 | Derby County | 42 | -10 | 43 |
| 22 | Cardiff City | 42 | -21 | 42 |
| 23 | Luton Town | 42 | -26 | 40 |
| 24 | Plymouth Argyle | 42 | -38 | 40 |
The relegation battle is unpredictable. Portsmouth recently scored a late goal against Derby, highlighting how quickly things can change. None of the bottom three teams seem completely out of the fight. Luton has improved their form recently, and their game against Derby is crucial for their survival hopes. Cardiff will hope for Sheffield United`s struggles to continue. Oxford United is trying to secure their Championship status after a mixed season.
Stoke and Hull have also been picking up points. Hull`s fixtures, including games against Derby and Portsmouth, could be decisive. Plymouth`s situation remains challenging, and their upcoming games against Middlesbrough and Coventry will be tough. However, this stage of the season is known for unexpected outcomes.
Predictions
Top two: Leeds and Burnley
Play offs: Sheffield United, Sunderland, Coventry City, Middlesbrough
Promoted: Coventry City
Relegation: Cardiff City, Luton Town, Plymouth Argyle
