Leeds United head coach Jesse Marsch is expected to use this evening’s friendly against Ligue 1 outfit AS Monaco as an opportunity to get as many players back to match fitness
The Whites are without a number of important players, however that did not hinder them in their attempts to beat Real Sociedad in a mid-season friendly last weekend. Their Friday night victory came as something of a surprise given Leeds’ list of absentees and La Real’s current position: third in LaLiga.
Monaco sit sixth in France’s top flight and will pose a tough test, precisely what Marsch’s group are in need of after friendly wins over Preston North End behind closed doors, Elche and Real Sociedad. Manchester City will be Leeds’ next fixture, as the Premier League resumes, on December 28 meaning tonight’s friendly will be the last material opportunity for those still lacking match sharpness to convince Marsch they deserve to start at Elland Road in a week’s time.
Here is the YEP’s predicted Leeds United XI to face Monaco.
Here is the YEP’s predicted Leeds United XI to face Monaco.
7. Marc Roca
Roca is one of the first names on the teamsheet this season and is unlikely to be left out, competitive fixture or otherwise (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) Photo: George Wood
Harrison was initially named in the starting line-up to face Real Sociedad but withdrew during the warm-up complaining of tightness. He is not injured, says assistant Rene Maric, therefore an appearance tonight will be of paramount importance to prepare him for a week's time (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) Photo: George Wood
Sam Greenwood could get the nod against Man City in seven days, therefore it would be prudent for the youngster to feature in midfield ahead of that game (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Photo: Jan Kruger
Aaronson only had 45 minutes on the pitch against La Real but is a shoe-in for a start versus Man City. Marsch is likely to deploy him on the right flank tonight (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Photo: Jan Kruger
With Bamford still out and Joe Gelhardt nine goals short of Rodrigo's tally for the season, it is the Spaniard who retains his place in attack (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Photo: Jan Kruger