Why Leeds United are the best team in the Championship in the eyes of Huddersfield Town boss Danny Cowley

Town were second best to Leeds in the reverse fixture at the John Smith's Stadium in December when a depleted home line-up were beaten 3-0.

The Terriers have more options for the return, but Cowley is under no illusions about the extent of his side's task.

He said: "We are respectful of Leeds. They have had a very good season thus far. They have put themselves in a really good position and they are a team that play with a real energy and intensity and play fast and furious football with real purpose.

"Their movement is outstanding and they are the best in the league in terms of counter-runs and double movements and penetrative nature of their movement and their rotation and ability to empty and fill up space.

"They ask an awful lot of questions defensively, but we have to make sure we match that physically in our tactical organisation against the ball and cause Leeds a problem when we have the ball. We have worked hard to focus on both sides of games.

"We must be at the top of our game with and against the ball to get something. Leeds are the best team in the division, in my opinion.

"But we feel in a much better place than we did when we last faced Leeds."

Cowley has confirmed that key midfielder Jonathan Hogg (knee) - who came off in the recent home win over Bristol City - will not be involved, but better news sees Andy King return to the fray after missing last weekend's win over Charlton, with goalkeeper Kamil Grabara also available again.

Defender Tommy Elphick (knee ligaments) is a long-term absentee.

"The group are in a good way and we have had a positive week on the grass. I have been impressed with the players' work ethic and attitude," Cowley added.

"The game is too soon for Hoggy. Unfortunately, he has picked up a ligament injury on outside of his knee; the lateral ligament.

"We were worried about him initially because whenever Hogg comes off, his head usually has to come off his shoulders!

"We are hoping he is not going to be too much. He has been brilliant for us since we have been in the building. He is a warrior and fighter and carries the DNA of club in his blood.

"Of course you will miss him, but it gives opportunities for some of our younger players and we are looking to the challenge that the game brings."