Daniel Farke is expected to rotate his squad for Leeds United’s trip to Plymouth Argyle this evening.
Leeds face the first of two long away meetings at Home Park in less than two weeks, following a 1-1 draw at Elland Road in the FA Cup fourth round last month.
If Leeds win, they will be rewarded with a trip to Aston Villa or Chelsea, depending on who wins their respective FA Cup replays this week.
Farke made six changes to his team for the first encounter a few weeks ago, and given Leeds‘ hectic schedule this month, it’s not surprising if he makes a similar number again.
So, with that in mind, here’s our expected lineup for the game.
Goalkeeper
Illan Meslier was the starting custodian in the FA Cup last time out and will do so again here.
Defence
With Jamie Shackleton out due to illness and Connor Roberts ineligible following his move from Burnley, Farke is forced to play Archie Gray at right-back, with Sam Byram replacing Junior Firpo on the opposite flank.
We could see a totally new central defensive partnership, with Liam Cooper almost certainly coming in and Charlie Cresswell making his first start since August.
Midfield
Farke appears to perceive Ethan Ampadu as unstoppable regardless of competition or timetable, therefore he returns to the middle of midfield.
Ilia Gruev appears to be the most likely to start beside him, giving him another chance to test if he and Ampadu can operate together, with Glen Kamara withdrawing.
Attack
Farke has used the FA Cup as an opportunity to rest Crysencio Summerville, therefore Jaidon Anthony will most likely replace him on the left.
Willy Gnonto is likely to make his third start in a straight in all competitions following his goal on Friday, with Dan James still absent.
Leeds’ fifth and final change comes at number nine, as Joel Piroe replaces Patrick Bamford, with Georginio Rutter completing the attack.
Predicted XI: Meslier; Gray, Cresswell, Cooper, Byram; Ampadu, Gruev; Gnonto, Rutter, Anthony, Piroe
Leave a Comment