Rotherham United vs Leeds United Prediction: Leeds look strong on paper

Rotherham United will welcome Leeds United at New York Stadium in Game Week 17 of the English Championship. Leeds will try to close in on the second spot in the table and put pressure on Leicester and Ipswich. Who will come out on top after 90 minutes?

Rotherham has an interim coaching staff after sacking their previous manager following a 5-0 defeat to Watford. This decision was made despite a commendable 2-2 draw at home against second-placed Ipswich. Rotherham would have expected to make a permanent appointment during the international break, but it seems that they are currently in a state of uncertainty. As they prepare to face one of the league's dominant teams, Rotherham finds themselves as one of the smaller teams in the division.

The Rotherham XI is set to undergo several changes, with Cafu likely to replace the injured Sam Clucas in midfield. Daniel Ayala, who has had more time to improve his fitness, could feature in the back three, while Georgie Kelly is expected to return in attack. Dexter Lembikisa's condition will need to be evaluated following his full 90-minute performance for Jamaica against Canada. 

The possible starting lineup for Rotherham United could be Johansson; Lembikisa, Peltier, Morrison, Ayala, Revan; Rathbone, Tiehi, Cafu; Kelly, Nombe. 

Daniel Farke has become accustomed to Leeds' attacking prowess this season, as they have scored at least three goals in five of their last 14 matches in all competitions. However, Farke is able to find positives in his team's victories over Leicester City and Plymouth Argyle. The 1-0 win against league leaders Leicester is particularly impressive, as it ended a four-game run without a clean sheet. Although Leeds had control of their game against Plymouth, they allowed the deficit to be halved in the 84th minute. Farke understands the importance of accumulating points, as Leeds tries to close the eight-point gap to the top two teams. Despite recent results, Leeds has not consistently performed well away from home, losing three of their eight away games already.

Junior Firpo is expected to take the place of the injured Sam Byram at left-back, potentially being the only alteration made by Farke. Ethan Ampadu, who played for Wales on Tuesday, will need to be assessed, or alternatively, Luke Ayling could be recalled and Archie Gray moved into midfield. 

For Leeds United, the possible starting lineup is Meslier; Gray, Rodon, Cooper, Firpo; Ampadu, Kamara; James, Piroe, Summerville; and Rutter.

As this is a local derby and one of their most challenging matches, Rotherham may approach the game with a sense of freedom. However, we anticipate that Leeds will continue their recent strong performance, displaying a ruthless attitude to put pressure on Leicester and Ipswich. Expect a high-scoring game in which the away side comes out with victory.