Leeds United could move into the playoff places with a win over Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road on New Year's Day.

The hosts have only won one of their last five matches but still sit level on points with Ipswich Town, who currently occupy the final playoff spot.

Brian McDermott's side fell to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest in their last outing but have only dropped four points from their last seven matches at Elland Road, winning five and drawing the last two.

Leeds welcome Scott Wootton back into the squad after injury, leaving Alex Mowatt as their only doubt for Wednesday's match.

Blackburn will also have one eye on a playoff charge in the second half of the season having lost just one of their last five games to rise to 12th in the table.

They could close the gap to the top six to just one point if results go their way on New Year's Day, but they will have to overcome their poor away form that has seen them win just twice on their travels all season.

The most recent of those came in their last away match, however, and Gary Bowyer's side will be boosted by the return of David Dunn in midfield.

The visitors are likely to be without Leon Best and Paul Robinson again, however, while DJ Campbell is expected to start the match on the bench with Jordan Rhodes leading the line alone.

Recent form

Leeds: WDWDDL

Blackburn: LDWWDL

Possible starting lineups

Leeds: Kenny; Pearce, Lees, Zaliukas; Peltier, Murphy, Brown, Austin, Pugh; Smith, McCormack

Blackburn: Eastwood; Henley, Hanley, Dann, Spurr; Taylor, Lowe, Dunn, Marshall; Cairney; Rhodes

Sports Mole says: 2-0

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