Full-backs are on Daniel Farke’s team news agenda for Leeds United’s trip to Preston this weekend following their triumph against Middlesbrough.
After defeating Middlesbrough in the middle of the week, the Whites are now sitting comfortably in the top two, three points ahead of the pursuing group in the playoff spots, and one point behind the leaders.
Leeds will be looking to improve on their performance from last season, when they were defeated by the home team on Boxing Day, when they travel to Deepdale next.
Leeds team news: Jayden Bogle, Sam Byram, and Max Wöber have late tests
Despite missing both of their starting full-backs due to injury—Jayden Bogle had a more modest setback and Junior Firpo was sidelined for four to six weeks—Lewisborough defeated Middlesbrough on Tuesday.
Max Wöber and Sam Byram both started and made a big impression by shutting down Boro’s main wide threat. Byram’s powerful tackle on Joel Piroe helped set up Leeds’ second goal.
Now, with Preston coming up next, Farke gave some concerning team news at his pregame press conference (via LeedsLive):
“A busy week. It’s the third game in seven days. Kickoff early. A few last-minute choices. Only recovery sessions have been held for those who participated in 90 on Tuesday. We will hold a real session this afternoon and make decisions then.
“A number of players have question marks and knocks. Wöber, hectic week, and first appearance in the lineup in a long time. Is he capable of three out of seven? Since his knee was swollen following the last game, I am unable to say yes at this time. I’m hoping he can train. Byram is no different. A few cramping. It looks better.
“Bogle is better now. He will be tested today. Many players had tests today before judgments are made tomorrow. With the exception of our long-term problems, I hope they are all available. We must wait and find out.
Leeds’ full-back might be a concern this weekend.
Leeds should ignore Preston if they want to win the league this season, but it’s concerning that their full-backs aren’t healthy.
Starting Wöber and Byram is by no means a concern because they have shown to be highly dependable deputies this season following setbacks for Firpo and Bogle.
We won’t have many options for the back four next to Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk, though, if they aren’t fit.
If players aren’t fit, Isaac Schmidt is definitely a candidate for minutes.
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