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Leeds United welcome Crystal Palace to Elland Road on Saturday and Daniel Farke has some important selection calls to make. The Whites boss has overseen an impressive three-game unbeaten run and last weekend watched his side come from behind to draw 1-1 at Brentford, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin scoring his fourth goal in as many games.
Farke confirmed on Thursday he will have the same squad available for a third straight game, with Lukas Nmecha still showing symptoms of a hamstring injury that kept him out of Brentford and Liverpool. Daniel James (hamstring tendon) and Sean Longstaff (calf) are also out but there are no fresh issues.
The Leeds boss could therefore name an unchanged side on Saturday evening but might also be tempted into a change or two, based on current form and how he intends to suppress opponents Palace. Below is the YEP’s attempt at predicting how Farke could set up at Elland Road.
7. CM: Ethan Ampadu
Back to his best in recent weeks after a dip in form and enjoying a little more attacking input, at least when Leeds are chasing. Also on four bookings. Photo: Steven Paston
8. CM: Anton Stach
Another good performance at Brentford and his physicality should cause problems for a Palace side showing signs of fatigue recently. Set-piece deliveries need to improve a little. | Getty Images
9. CM: Ao Tanaka
Struggled at Brentford but should be afforded a little more space to dictate things on Saturday, given Palace have a man less in midfield. Two goals in his last two games at Elland Road. | Getty Images
10. LWB: Gabriel Gudmundsson
Won't have to deal with AFCON-bound Ismaila Sarr or the injured Daniel Munoz, which is a boost. Charges forward have become a moment Elland Road rises to and they'll no doubt come again this weekend. | AFP via Getty Images
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11. ST: Willy Gnonto
Rewarded for twice making an impact off the bench with a return to the startling line-up, where he will hope to contribute from the off. Will be tasked with getting in and around Calvert-Lewin but can drift wide to either wing and link-up with Bogle or Gudmundsson. | Getty Images
12. ST: Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Four goals in four and the performances to back it up, Calvert-Lewin is in his best run since 2020. Will have to be right at it against a strong and well-drilled Palace back three. Photo: Mike Hewitt