The Easter weekend marks a critical point in the English Football League Championship season. With only four games remaining, much is still to be decided. Automatic promotion is still up for grabs, the playoff picture isn`t fully set, and numerous teams are fighting to stay in the league and avoid relegation to League One. In fact, around 17 of the 24 teams in the Championship are involved in these high-stakes battles.
The action begins on Friday, April 18th, with key matches including a Midlands derby between Coventry City and West Bromwich Albion, which will significantly impact the playoff race. Luton Town, fighting against consecutive relegations, will play away against Derby County before hosting Bristol City, another playoff contender, on Monday. Can Millwall break into the top six? Can Plymouth Argyle achieve a great escape from relegation? Here’s a preview of what to watch for in the Championship`s double game weekend.
1. Automatic Promotion Still in Play?
Leeds United appears to be in a strong position for automatic promotion. Throughout the season, under Daniel Farke, they have displayed arguably the best football in the league, leading in goals scored by a significant margin. Their defensive record is also strong. In a league known for its competitiveness, their expected goal difference is notably high, comparable to top European teams. They seem ready for the Premier League. However, with Leeds` history, past seasons have shown that leads can be fragile. Despite a five-point advantage with four games left, Farke is urging caution, emphasizing the need to manage emotions and maintain focus.
By the time Leeds plays, they will know if Burnley has overtaken them and if Sheffield United has closed the gap on the top two. Sheffield United, after recent losses, are behind the top two but still in contention. Manager Chris Wilder stresses embracing pressure and aiming for wins in their remaining games, including a crucial Easter Monday match against Burnley. While Leeds and Burnley seem strong contenders for automatic promotion, Sheffield United will try to capitalize on any slip-ups.
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 and Contenders
Sheffield United`s form is a concern as they head towards the playoffs. Momentum is crucial at this stage, and their recent results are not ideal. Sunderland, while slightly less consistent recently, seem secure in fourth place. Below them, several teams are vying for the remaining two playoff spots.
Bristol City currently holds a playoff position but faces a challenging game against Luton Town. Coventry City, with strong underlying performance metrics, looks like a serious playoff contender if they qualify. However, their recent form has been inconsistent. Middlesbrough`s form is also unpredictable, capable of both wins and losses. Millwall`s recent victory has put them in the playoff mix, and their upcoming fixtures offer a potential path to the top six.
3. Intense Relegation Battle
The bottom of the Championship table is incredibly tight with just four games left. Preston North End and Queens Park Rangers are just above the relegation zone. Their Friday match is crucial, as the loser will be nervously looking at other results. QPR`s manager, Marti Cifuentes, acknowledges that while 50 points is usually enough for safety, nothing is guaranteed yet.
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. Luton Town, Cardiff City, and Plymouth Argyle are all fighting to escape the drop. Luton`s match against Derby is particularly significant. Oxford United, after a mixed season, is aiming to secure Championship football for another year. Stoke City and Hull City are also working to secure their places in the league. Plymouth Argyle, despite being statistically weak, will be hoping for a turnaround.
Predictions
Top two: Leeds and Burnley
Play offs: Sheffield United, Sunderland, Coventry City, Middlesbrough
Promoted: Coventry City
Relegation: Cardiff City, Luton Town, Plymouth Argyle
