Prediction: Leeds vs Cardiff

Prediction: Cardiff win

Best Odds: 31/4

Bookmaker: 888sport

The FA Cup is back once again this week and while replays may seem a bit played out, it offers up a chance for clubs to earn a bit of extra revenue from the competition – which is always a good thing. The third round is never a place where you want to exit, especially if you’re a Premier League team, which is why Leeds United will be desperate to finally get past Championship side Cardiff City on Wednesday.

Leeds

The Jesse Marsch experiment is starting to stall in a big way. Leeds just aren’t able to pick up results right now and although the top flight is unpredictable, that doesn’t excuse the lack of flair we’ve seen from their first team as of late. Marcelo Bielsa built this squad an identity based on giving it your all. If they want to win back some of the fans, they’ll need to showcase that in a big way moving forward.

Team News

Bamford could well start here but the following players have been ruled out through injury: Summerville, Gray, Forshaw, Dallas and Sinisterra.

Cardiff

They’re struggling to score goals, and they’re struggling to stay away from the relegation battle. When you add a managerial sacking into the equation, it’s safe to say the Bluebirds are in trouble. The FA Cup can so often serve as a great distraction from your problems and given how close they were to going through in Wales, it makes sense to believe they’ll give it everything they’ve got in Yorkshire.

Team News

Dean Whitehead will take change as interim boss with Romeo being ruled out and Whyte being a fitness concern.

Factors to Consider

• In the initial tie, Leeds came from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Cardiff.
• Leeds have drawn three and lost three of their last six games.
• Cardiff have drawn five and lost one of their last six games.
• Leeds have scored nine goals and conceded 13 in their last six games.
• Cardiff have scored four goals and conceded five in their last six games.

Conclusion

The impact that changing your manager can have is fairly extraordinary and we expect to see that in full force here for Cardiff. Their travelling fans will know Leeds are in a rough patch and based on the first game, they’ll also know they can really get at them. We think they’ll push Leeds back, wait for their moment and hit them with a nice counter attack goal, booking their place in the fourth round in the process.

Prediction: Cardiff win

Best Odds: 31/4

Bookmaker: 888sport