Boss Daniel Farke named an unchanged team for Monday night’s hosting of Sunderland in which two substitutes then combined to turn the game on its head. Pascal Struijk, recently back from injury, and Joe Rothwell were both brought with Leeds 1-0 down in the 71st minute.
Two delicious crosses from Rothwell then led to two headed goals from Struijk whose 78th-minute equaliser was followed by an incredible 95th-minute winner to seal a 2-1 success. One week later, Farke now has some big decisions to make in naming his team for Monday night’s huge clash at second-placed Sheffield United.
Speaking at Friday’s pre-match press conference, Farke revealed a question mark over winger Manor Solomon who suffered bruising following a “nasty” tackle in Monday’s win against the Black Cats.
Solomon had been unable to train although Farke was hoping that the Israel international star would return to training over the weekend. If not, said the Whites boss, Solomon would not travel with the squad. A key player, Solomon will clearly be given every chance and this is the Leeds XI that we think will step out at Bramall Lane as second hosts first.
7. CM: Ao Tanaka
A very hard call. If Ampadu returns to midfield then it's one from three out of Tanaka, Joe Rothwell and Ilia Gruev. Rothwell clearly deserves a start after his brilliant impact from the bench against Sunderland but maybe he will be seen as a better attacking option from the bench if and when required. Ilia Gruev has also excelled of late but Tanaka is clearly a class act and it might now be Ampadu and Tanaka in the middle of the park. A very hard call though. Photo: Richard Heathcote
8. RW: Dan James
A very easy call out wide, James now on ten goals and six assists for the campaign. And to think there used to be question marks about end product. Photo: Cameron Howard
9. LW: Largie Ramazani
Another very hard call as clearly a thriving Solomon starts if fit although that must be doubtful on the back of his knock against Sunderland and missing any part of training is hardly ideal. If Solomon is forced to miss out then it's Ramazani or Gnonto which in itself is a very hard call. Ramazani was preferred from the bench to Gnonto against Sunderland, Gnonto an unused sub, so on that basis perhaps Ramazani would be the call but could go any way of three. Another big change - if forced. Photo: Ryan Hiscott
10. ACM: Brenden Aaronson
Compared to "like a bee" by boss Daniel Farke of late such is his energy. Just as well given the amount of minutes he is playing as the clear first choice no 10. Photo: Cameron Howard
11. ST: Joel Piroe
Top scorer on 14 goals, now clear first choice striker and favourite to score the first goal at Bramall Lane. Photo: Matt McNulty