Leeds United fell a little closer to the Premier League relegation zone following Sunday’s 3-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest, with two weeks to reflect another disappointing away-day. Daniel Farke’s side are now just two places and one point above West Ham in 18th and return from the November international break with a home game against Aston Villa.
A number of first-teamers are away on international duty but the two-week break will allow Farke to work with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor, while Willy Gnonto will also have another fortnight to build fitness having not played since September. And the break could give the German a chance to nail down his strongest XI ahead of Villa.
There are some key decisions to make at centre-back and in central midfield, while calls are growing for a change out wide as Leeds’ issues further forward continue. Below, the YEP has attempted to draw up the strongest starting line-up and bench that could be on show at Elland Road next weekend.
13. Sub: Sebastiaan Bornauw
Has struggled to make recent squads but with three centre-backs on the pitch, Bornauw comes on to the bench as back-up. Ampadu can also drop into the back three if necessary but natural cover is important. | Nigel French/PA Wire
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14. Sub: James Justin
First-choice cover at both left-back and right-back, having already come on and looked decent on either side. Versatility in that sense should see him get decent minutes, with Sam Byram not in the squad. | Nigel French/PA Wire
15. Sub: Ilia Gruev
Undoubtedly the natural back-up to Whites captain Ampadu. Could also come off the bench for a Tanaka or Stach if Leeds are holding on to a lead at any point. Photo: Marc Atkins
16. Sub: Brenden Aaronson
Could come on in place of someone like Okafor if Leeds are holding on to a lead, further packing out the middle of the pitch, or for a Tanaka if the Whites are chasing. | Getty Images
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17. Sub: Daniel James
The Welshman is an option to come on at right-wing if Leeds move to a front-three in-game. Has the energy and pace to come on at right wing-back too, if Leeds are chasing a game. | Getty Images
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18. Sub: Willy Gnonto
Could play a similar role to Okafor as a second striker but more useful out wide, most likely if Farke moves to a front three at any point in-game. | Getty Images