Bradford v Leeds: Faith in Hockaday will be rewarded

Dave Hockaday's future as Leeds manager is already in doubt

Leeds are unbelievable value to win at Bradford in the Capital One Cup, argues Michael Lintorn...

Bradford v Leeds
Wednesday, 19:45
Live on Sky Sports 1

Match Odds: Bradford 2.588/5, Leeds 3.052/1, The Draw 3.55/2

It didn't take long for the air of optimism surrounding Massimo Cellino's Leeds takeover to become polluted. Even after the appointment of untested Dave Hockaday and sale of Ross McCormack, there was initial positivity: the deadwood was being ditched and exciting young players were arriving.

However, three defeats in their opening four Championship games - albeit perhaps to be expected from an overhauled squad - saw panic set in. Sitting a place above the relegation zone, there was strong speculation that Cellino would prod his famously itchy finger into action.

Eventually, he resisted, just as Fulham did when presented with a similar dilemma as to whether to sack Felix Magath following four losses to start the season. Their perseverance was rewarded with a first post-relegation victory at Brentford in the Capital One Cup second round. Now, it's Leeds turn.

Their status as 3.052/1 outsiders to triumph at the Coral Windows Stadium is disrespectful given that they haven't exited this competition to a lower-league team in 12 years, winning six of their last seven trips in it to face fellow members of the Sky-termed FL72.

Bradford memorably reached the 2012/13 Capital One Cup final, playing a key role in redefining an unduly-maligned tournament as one of the most enthralling and unpredictable on the calendar. They have lost three cup fixtures in four since though, with Huddersfield, Rotherham and Hartlepool the conquerors.

The Bantams also possess a hideous head-to-head record against Leeds, prevailing in none of their most recent 14 meetings, five of which they held home advantage in. They conceded 11 goals in the latest three.

Additionally, they are far from infallible as hosts even at League One level. Since the start of March, Stevenage, Walsall, Oldham and Peterborough have all left West Yorkshire three points better off.

Correct Score

If you wish to nail down a result, both of Leeds' wins this term have come by one-goal margins and three of Bradford's five encounters to date have delivered under 1.5 goals, so 1-0 Leeds has to be rated the outstanding option at 11.010/1.

Best Bet: Back Leeds to win @ 3.052/1
Other Recommended Bet: Back Leeds to win 1-0 @ 11.010/1