Leeds United returned to winning ways on Saturday after beating Queens Park Rangers 2-0, with goals either side of half-time from Jayden Bogle and Joel Piroe ensuring all three points remained at Elland Road. Victory closed the gap on league leaders Sunderland from four points to two, renewing optimism in West Yorkshire following Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat at Millwall.
Leeds have faced the last few weeks with a raft of injury issues, with the likes of Ethan Ampadu, Largie Ramazani and Ilia Gruev all sidelined for long periods. An impressive squad depth has allowed Farke to replace those absentees with top-quality talent but once they return, the German will have some tough decisions to make across the pitch.
A fully-fit squad is a rare commodity, but the YEP has drawn up a strongest starting line-up when those current absentees return - with some difficult calls in midfield, out wide and upfront. Take a look below to see if you agree...
7. CM: Ao Tanaka
Has been the standout player in virtually all of his eight starts, sweeping up opposition attacks and working the ball forward neatly. Should only improve in his more natural role ahead of Ampadu, and the best pick over Rothwell or Gruev. Will hope to be in the goals once he does push forward. | Getty Images
8. RW: Wilfried Gnonto
Struggled a bit in recent weeks but undoubtedly Leeds' attacking talisman when at his best. Offers more than Dan James in terms of rotating across the attacking unit, drifting into central areas and so on. Has started every game so far and evidently a key man for Farke. | Getty Images
9. CAM: Brenden Aaronson
Four goals represents Aaronson's most productive campaign since joining Leeds already, with the American looking like first-choice in the No.10 role. Farke was slightly critical of him recently but it's been a good start to the campaign overall. | Getty Images
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10. LW: Largie Ramazani
News of Ramazani's four-to-six-week absence with ankle ligament damage has been a major blow for Leeds, who have missed their £10m summer signing. Three goals and one assist an excellent start for the 23-year-old, who will hope to hit the ground running when he returns next month. | Getty Images
11. ST: Mateo Joseph
Joel Piroe has struggled when starting upfront and despite his struggle for goals, Joseph has been far more effective in leading the line. Does need to up his tally but doing enough away from goal to justify a place in the starting line-up. | Getty Images