UPDATE: The upcoming fixtures for Leicester City are being scrutinized in comparison to those of Leeds, Ipswich, and Southampton, as a challenging stretch of matches could potentially create opportunities for these teams.

The next four Championship fixtures for City are being closely analyzed as a crucial period leading up to the March international break, with the challenging nature of these matches potentially holding significant implications for their pursuit of promotion to the Premier League.

Enzo Maresca on the touchline during Leicester City’s 3-1 loss to Leeds at Elland Road

Leicester City maintains its lead in the Championship table, but the pressure is mounting as their promotion rivals narrow the gap. Within just eight days, City’s lead has diminished from 14 points to six, marking the smallest margin in over four months, since early October.

The upcoming month presents a challenging set of fixtures for City as they aim to defend their top spot and secure a position within the automatic promotion places. Here’s a breakdown of the next four fixtures for each promotion contender leading up to the March international break.

Leicester City – 1st – 78pts

Next four fixtures: QPR (H), Sunderland (A), Hull (A), Southampton (H)

City faces a tough run in their upcoming games. Despite playing a relegation-threatened QPR at home, the London side has shown resilience in recent matches. Following that, a midweek trip to Sunderland, who are currently without a manager and on a losing streak, awaits. Hull, in contention for the top six, poses another challenge before City confronts Southampton, albeit dependent on FA Cup progression.

Leeds United – 2nd – 72pts

Next four fixtures: Huddersfield (A), Stoke (H), Sheff Wed (A), Millwall (H)

Leeds, on a remarkable nine-game winning streak, have relatively favorable fixtures against teams struggling in the bottom six. Despite potential resilience from opponents like Huddersfield and Sheffield Wednesday, Leeds’ strong form makes them favorites in these matchups, although their FA Cup progression could affect scheduling.

Ipswich – 3rd – 72pts

Next four fixtures: Plymouth (A), Bristol City (H), Cardiff (A), Sheff Wed (H)

After a period of inconsistency, Ipswich has regained momentum with four consecutive victories. With a focus solely on the Championship, Ipswich faces three mid-table sides in their upcoming fixtures. However, lengthy away trips to Plymouth and Cardiff present challenges despite their recent form.