Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has several important selection decisions to make ahead of tomorrow evening’s Premier League game against Chelsea. The German surprised many in switching formation at half-time against Manchester City last weekend, a move which sparked a spirited second-half performance from his side - albeit one that ended in defeat.
Farke will not be able to call on Dan James tomorrow or for the next two months, following confirmation the winger has suffered a hamstring tendon injury, and is still without Sean Longstaff. Fellow midfielder Anton Stach is in contention to feature after recovering from a concussion while Sebastiaan Bornauw and Karl Darlow could both make the squad.
Whether Farke deems a formation change necessary for Chelsea remains to be seen but with some fresh injury issues and important returns, the Whites boss could be tempted to make a few changes. Below, the YEP has attempted to predict how he might line up at Elland Road.
1. Leeds United predicted XI
Here is how the YEP predicts Daniel Farke could line up against Chelsea on Wednesday. | Martin Rickett/PA Wire
2. GK: Lucas Perri
Made a few decent stops at City and some might feel he was fouled by Bernardo Silva when failing to clear the corner that led to Josko Gvardiol's goal. Kicking is improving but still a source of unease at times. | Getty Images
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3. CB: Joe Rodon
Regardless of the formation Farke picks, Rodon will start as he has done every other Premier League game this season. Has been Leeds' best defender and a great threat from set-pieces. | Getty Images
4. CB: Jaka Bijol
Slotted into the central centre-back role well at City, which is no surprise given it's a position he played at Udinese and Slovenia. It means he can focus on blocks and clearances, rather than defending while running towards his own goal. | Getty Images
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5. CB: Pascal Struijk
Deserves huge credit for keeping Erling Haaland quiet on Saturday and relished the physical battle. Might be a similar type of fight if Liam Delap starts but Joao Pedro would offer a more mobile opponent. | Getty Images
6. RWB: Jayden Bogle
Was really aggressive at City and got stuck into Jeremy Doku, which he'll need to do just as well against a Pedro Neto or Estevao. Attacking play will be just as important as the one to maintain width down the right. | Getty Images