Leeds United showed a different side to their game in beating Chelsea 3-1 on Wednesday, with a new formation and more direct approach paying instant dividends. Goals from Jaka Bijol, Ao Tanaka and Dominic Calvert-Lewin capped off an outstanding team performance to pull the Whites above West Ham and into 17th.
Daniel Farke’s decision to switch to 3-5-2 couldn’t have gone much better and while the Leeds boss insists he is not wedded to any ‘base formation’, that more robust style of play has to remain. The new set up also seemed to get the best out of key players such as Bijol, Stach and Gabriel Gudmundsson.
With all focus now on Liverpool this weekend, it will be interesting to see if Farke opts for a similar formation and style. Below is the YEP’s attempt at a new strongest possible starting XI and bench as things stand.
2. GK: Lucas Perri
Made some good saves in recent weeks. Benefits from a more direct style, with kicking less not under the microscope as much when going long. | Getty Images
3. CB: Joe Rodon
Ever-present and can do virtually no wrong at the minute. Pace on the cover is crucial and a big set-piece threat too. | Getty Images
4. CB: Jaka Bijol
Best performance in a Leeds shirt came against Chelsea. Seems infinitely more comfortable in the middle of a back three. | AFP via Getty Images
5. CB: Pascal Struijk
Relished the chance to be aggressive and step into midfield against Chelsea. The main point of build-up when Leeds to play out from the back. | AFP via Getty Images
6. RWB: Jayden Bogle
Looks almost custom-made for a right wing-back role, charging up and down that side relentlessly and maintaining width. Tired a little against Chelsea, understandably. | Getty Images