Leeds United have seven games to retain their Premier League status and despite some disappointing recent results, are well-placed to do so. Daniel Farke’s side have 33 points from 31 games, enough to see them four clear of the relegation zone and above all of West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur.
There is no doubt that goals have been a recent issue, however, with Leeds failing to score in their last four league games. An incorrect dismissal and the failure to award a clear penalty haven’t helped, but the attack has dried up a little with Dominic Calvert-Lewin not as free-scoring as he once was.
That could all change after the break, though, with two exciting returnees in Noah Okafor and Gabriel Gudmundsson. And with those two back, the YEP has attempted to put together a starting-XI that will get Leeds scoring and ensure their Premier League survival.
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1. Strongest Leeds United XI
Can this starting line-up secure Premier League survival? | John Walton/PA Wire
2. GK: Karl Darlow
Steadied the ship since replacing Lucas Perri and pulled off some brilliant saves of late. Better on the ball too, and seems to give his defensive teammates confidence. | Matt McNulty/Getty Images
3. CB: Joe Rodon
Played more Premier League minutes than any teammate and expected to keep that up between now and May. Athleticism is hugely important for Leeds, be it covering in behind or pushing into that hybrid right-back role he's enjoyed recently. Photo: Matt McNulty
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4. CB: Jaka Bijol
The man for the battle and Leeds' best box defender, Bijol has kept plenty of good Premier League strikers quiet this season. A huge set-piece threat, too. | AFP via Getty Images
5. CB: Pascal Struijk
Has freedom to defend on the front foot with two alongside, which is exactly where the Dutchman wants to be. The key to Leeds building from the back too, as the only left-footed centre-back. | Getty Images
6. RWB: Jayden Bogle
James Justin has been excellent all season but right now, Leeds need attacking quality out wide and Bogle is the man for it. Much more comfortable pushing into a right-wing role when Rodon moves out wide. | Richard Sellers/PA Wire