Leeds are looking like the real deal for a return to the top flight this season and after a string of impressive performances, finally reached the Championship summit on Boxing Day.

The Whites, top on goal difference from Sheffield United, have reeled off seven wins from their past nine matches as they head to Derby for a teatime kick-off.

But if there is a chink in the armour, it is on the road. Daniel Farke’s men have dropped points in six of their past eight away games.

Having lost their place at the head of the table, the Blades have the chance to snatch it straight back – for a few hours at least.

Chris Wilder’s side saw their 11-match unbeaten run ended by automatic promotion rivals Burnley, three days ago, and head to 16th-placed Preston for one of the three 12:30 kick-offs.

The Clarets will carry chockfuls of confidence from their Bramall Lane win as they face a second tricky away test in three days – a trip to seventh-placed Middlesbrough (20:00 GMT).

Scott Parker’s charges head to Teeside unbeaten in 10 and will ring in the new year as Championship leaders if they win and the top two both drop points.

For their part, Boro’s hit-and-miss season was epitomised in 90 chaotic minutes against Sheffield Wednesday on Thursday when they led 3-0 at half-time, but were left hanging on for a 3-3 draw.