‘We are aware…’ The Championship manager admits that his team is more likely to lose than win against Leeds

Preston North End manager Ryan Lowe believes his team has only a 50/50 chance of defeating Leeds United.

Leeds visit Deepdale on Boxing Day, and Lowe has spoken about his team’s festive period ahead of Friday’s away game at Swansea City.

Leeds have a squad that costs significantly more than many other teams in the division, with the exception of fellow relegated sides Leicester City and Southampton, with the likes of Georginio Rutter, Dan James, and Joel Piroe as part of a ‘unplayable’ front three.

Lowe told BBC Lancashire Sport that North End will need to devise a special ‘game plan’ to defeat Leeds in their Boxing Day clash.

What style that will be is another question, with Sunderland and Coventry City both sitting deep to win their last two games against Leeds.

Lowe’s comments reveal what Leeds is up against.

“We have Swansea, Leeds, which we know will be tough, Sheffield Wednesday, and Sunderland on New Year’s Day,” he said. Is it possible to win all of them? Yes. Are they all susceptible to defeat? They have to be.

“Do you have the ability to draw?” Without a doubt. With the possible exception of Leeds, most games are 50/50. But we know we need to put together a game plan that works for us in order to get something out of the Leeds game.”