Leeds United 2-0 Millwall: Wilfried Gnonto and Dan James goals put Whites top

Leeds United moved to the top of the Championship for the first time this season after they beat Millwall at Elland Road.

Georginio Rutter should have doubled their advantage after the break when he forced a save from Lions keeper Matija Sarkic, before his rebound was deflected on to the post.

Second-half substitute Dan James wrapped up the win with a close-range finish as he worked on to Rutter’s fantastic ball across the face of goal with 11 minutes remaining.

The result means Leeds head to the Championship summit, a point above Ipswich and above Leicester on goal difference – having played a game more than the Foxes.

Enzo Maresca’s side were not in league action this weekend, losing 4-2 at Chelsea in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

Millwall, on the other hand, remain in 16th, having seen a four-game unbeaten start under returning boss Neil Harris come to an end.

Leeds dominated the first half and were rewarded for their pressure when Italy forward Gnonto received the ball and took a turn before firing home left-footed from distance past Sarkic.

Sarkic kept the visitors within a goal when he pulled off a fabulous diving save to deny Crysencio Summerville, but Leeds arguably should have been awarded a penalty soon after.

Jake Cooper went in high with his knee and appeared to catch Joe Rodon in his face, however referee Stephen Martin did not point to the spot.

Millwall rarely looked likely to test the hosts as Daniel Farke’s side largely dominated proceedings, however the Lions had Sarkic to thank for keeping them in contention at least.

Rutter’s quick-fire pair of chances on goal, during which he was denied by Sarkic in fine fashion, was the closest Leeds came to padding out their advantage.

Michael Obafemi did weave his way into the Leeds box as the visitors made a rare foray forward late on, but his solo effort finished with him firing high and wide of the mark while under pressure from Ethan Ampadu.

Shortly before James added Leeds’ second Patrick Bamford went close inside the box, and would have finished coolly were it not for some impressive defending from Japhet Tanganga.