Without Ilia Gruev, Ethan Ampadu, Daniel James, Manor Solomon, and Max Wober, Leeds United is dealing with a growing list of injuries that is making Daniel Farke’s job more difficult. As they face Championship leaders Sunderland, United have a chance to level on points with them at the top of the table. Farke acknowledges the challenges of the intense schedule but is confident in his team’s ability to adapt and rotate players to cope with the demands.
The absence of key players like Gruev and Ampadu has forced Farke to rethink his midfield options, with Joe Rothwell set for his first league start alongside Ao Tanaka in the centre. Sky Sports pundit Jobi McAnuff sees the midfield as a real area of concern for United, as injuries continue to mount in that area.
Despite the defensive reshuffle, Farke is unlikely to make changes to his back four, as they have been solid in recent games. Wilfried Gnonto and Largie Ramazani have been in good form on the flanks and are expected to retain their places. There is a possibility of Joel Piroe returning to the starting lineup, but Brenden Aaronson and Mateo Joseph have been performing well up front.
As they prepare to face Sunderland, United’s predicted lineup includes Meslier; Bogle, Rodon, Struijk, Firpo; Tanaka, Rothwell; Gnonto, Aaronson, Ramazani; Joseph. The team will be looking to continue their strong start to the season and challenge for the top spot in the Championship.
