Leeds United manager Daniel Farke says the number of games with quick turnarounds over the festive period was a deciding factor in choosing to leave Japan international Ao Tanaka out from the start against Stoke City on Boxing Day.

Ethan Ampadu, playing as a defensive midfielder again, was initially seen dropping in between the two centre-backs when they split wide early in the game. This became infrequent beyond the first 15 minutes as Leeds took control and had no need for the extra defender.

News, action and reaction as it happens from the bet365 Stadium as Stoke City take on Leeds United in Championship Boxing Day showdown

JOEL PIROE bagged a brace as Leeds United moved to the top of the Championship with a 2-0 win away at struggling Stoke.

The pick of the stats as Stoke City face Leeds United in the Championship on Boxing Day.

Leeds United went to the top of the Championship with a 2-0 win over Stoke City thanks to a brace from Joel Piroe on Boxing Day. The visitors were comfortably the better side and took control after the opening knockings.

Piroe netted either side of half-time to move Leeds above Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United, who were beaten by fellow promotion chasers Burnley earlier in the day.