'Appalling' - Leeds United fans on Cardiff City predictions, Whites problems and boss 'last chance'

Here is what our YEP Jury have had to say on Saturday afternoon’s 3pm kick-off between the Bluebirds and Whites.

NEIL GREWER

The failings of last season are haunting Leeds again – namely, a failure to break down teams ‘parking the bus’ and an appalling record of not scoring from set-pieces (especially corners), leading to criticism of Daniel Farke.

I have noted changes from last season in the first problem area. Last season, Georgie often took on a man too many and there was an over reliance upon Cree Summerville but, this season, there are more players involved and more movement.

Brenden Aaronson is making telling short passes, Willy Gnonto has freedom to move inside, Junior Firpo is getting forward even more and Mateo Joseph is a different animal to Joel Piroe or Pat Bamford. These changes now need to bear fruit – and what better time than at Cardiff against a team who may not ‘park the bus’ and, if they do, with their record it will be more like parking a taxi!

So I see Leeds winning as they should be too strong for a Cardiff team struggling at present – hopefully including a goal from a corner.

Prediction: Cardiff City 0 Leeds United 2

ANDY RHODES

Last week saw Leeds fall to their first league defeat of the season, in what was a clash between two of the league’s promotion favourites.

This weekend, United travel to Cardiff who have had a far from perfect start. The Bluebirds sit bottom of the table and are one of just three winless sides in the division. The Whites will need to take full advantage if they are to make up lost ground.

Manor Solomon looked positive again last weekend, while Mateo Joseph will be looking to bounce back after his glaring miss in the opening minute.

Saturday’s game will be a special occasion for both sides as they remember Sol Bamba. The defender captained both sides and will be remembered fondly by many in the world of football.

At times he was heroic in his defending and, as we know from previous visits to South Wales, Leeds will certainly need to be strong at the back.

Bouncing back here with three points is essential for the Whites, particularly when their hosts are on such a poor run of form.

Prediction: Cardiff City 1 Leeds United 2

DAVID WATKINS

So far, this feels much like 12 months ago, Leeds dominating games but failing to take chances while the opposition steal points. That was certainly the case against Portsmouth and last weekend against Burnley.

Perhaps there is a reason for this. Just like last season, Leeds have not yet settled into a rhythm; not had time to settle recent arrivals; not found a settled XI. Largie Ramazani, Manor Solomon, Isaac Schmidt and Ao Tanaka all came just hours before the transfer deadline and then the international break stopped us in our tracks. Surely all four will play a big part going forward.

Now is the time though to get our act together and begin a run similar to the one we saw in January. Last year’s trip to the CCS was the third of a 12-game unbeaten run, including 11 wins.

The Bluebirds are in trouble, one point from five games and with suggestions that manager Erol Bulut is facing the sack and, yes, of course, I'm aware that in the past that is a scenario for a team to turn us over! Not this time! With a full week to integrate new faces and get players focused on their roles, I’m expecting a comfortable Leeds win.

Prediction: Cardiff City 0 Leeds United 3

KEITH INGHAM

Last Saturday’s defeat, not surprisingly, brought a negative response from social media.

After last season’s heartbreak and star players leaving, a first league defeat at home many have questioned where the club is going. But I think Daniel Farke deserves a break; he obviously wanted someone that failed to materialise and a couple of the players brought in are, at the moment, not performing at the expected level. He can only work with what he has.

Maybe, just maybe, Farke needs to try something different; a change of formation maybe. With no obvious No 10, there could be a change to a 4-3-3 with Ampadu, Gruev and Tanaka in midfield with Solomon, Gnonto and Joseph as the three forwards. It may be harsh on Aaronson, who’s done okay, but it still might be worth trying. Whatever the formation, chances need to be taken for sure.

Cardiff have yet to register a win this season and have only one point from their five Championship games. They are, if rumours are correct, considering changing their manager after a less than inspiring start. It’s not a must-win game but, in the context of some supporters’ feelings, it definitely is a must-not-lose fixture. Leeds to edge it by a goal.

Prediction: Cardiff City 1 Leeds United 2

MIKE GILL

A full week's rest precedes the long trip to South Wales where the Whites meet the winless Bluebirds.

Assuming he is still in charge, Cardiff manager Erol Bulut must surely be approaching the swinging doors of the last-chance saloon. Being a decent man, Daniel Farke must ensure that his fellow German-born manager does not suffer any more by putting him and his team out of their misery.

The Bluebirds finished a respectable 12th last season but they have faltered this time around. Their solitary point came against near-neighbours Swansea at the end of August and large elements of their support are baying for blood.

Now most of us know that this is a potential banana skin for United we can only hope that Old Mother Warnock is not parachuted in at the last moment to save the day. On a more serious and sombre note, Cardiff and Leeds will come together to honour a great favourite at both clubs: Sol Bamba.

Emotions will be high on both sides but, after a fitting tribute, United must knuckle down and come home with what should be a routine three points.

Prediction: Cardiff City 0 Leeds United 2