Leeds United is gearing up for their upcoming Championship fixture against Sunderland at Elland Road on Tuesday night, seeking to bounce back after a 2-1 defeat to Coventry City over the weekend under Daniel Farke’s management.
To realign their promotion ambitions, Leeds may see some alterations in their lineup. Here is FFC’s envisioned Leeds lineup for the clash against Sunderland, with three tweaks anticipated:
- Illan Meslier
- Meslier is expected to remain in goal, despite criticism for the recent conceded goal, maintaining his place as the primary choice goalkeeper for Farke this season.
- Connor Roberts
- Roberts could step in at right-back to allow space for Archie Gray to transition to midfield. His attacking prowess and contributions might add dynamism to the team’s offensive endeavors against Sunderland.
- Joe Rodon
- Rodon, despite some shaky moments in the previous game, is likely to continue in the heart of the defense, aiming for a solid defensive display and better communication with his teammates.
- Ethan Ampadu
- Ampadu may partner with Rodon in the central defense, as Struijk is sidelined for the remainder of the season. His role could play a crucial part in shoring up Leeds’ defense.
- Junior Firpo
- Firpo, following a strong performance in the last match, is set to hold onto his position, showcasing his defensive capabilities and providing attacking threats from the back.
- Archie Gray
- Gray could shift to his natural midfield position, potentially replacing Kamara, offering him a chance to shine in his preferred role and showcasing his skills in a more central role.
- Ilia Gruev
- Gruev, coming back from injury, might join Gray in midfield, bringing his composed presence and precise passing to enhance Leeds’ control in the center of the park.
- Dan James
- James is anticipated to continue on the right side of the attack, leveraging his creativity and dribbling skills to unlock Sunderland’s defense and create scoring opportunities for Leeds.
The anticipated lineup adjustments aim to revitalize Leeds United’s performance, address recent shortcomings, and set the stage for a strong showing against Sunderland, marking a crucial step forward in their promotion quest.
The rapid Welsh forward, who recently netted a stunning long-range goal against Hull City, is poised to utilize his pace and direct style of play to continually trouble the Sunderland defense.
- Wilfried Gnonto
- Georginio Rutter’s lackluster performance in the number ten role might prompt Farke to introduce Wilfried Gnonto, known for his proficiency on the right, into a central attacking role.
- Despite Rutter’s struggles with turnovers and creative output, Gnonto’s goal-scoring ability and anticipation, highlighted by Antonio Mango, could offer a fresh dynamic to the team’s offense.
- With seven goals in 15 starts, including crucial strikes from central positions, such as against Plymouth, Millwall, Sheffield Wednesday, and previous encounter with Plymouth, Gnonto presents a potent alternative.
- Crysencio Summerville
- Crysencio Summerville, a standout performer with 17 goals and eight assists in the Championship this season, is slated to continue on the left flank.
- His impressive form has earned him a nomination for the Championship PFA Player of the Year award, and another stellar performance against Sunderland could further solidify his candidacy.
- Mateo Joseph
- To address the striker dilemma, Mateo Joseph is set to replace the misfiring Patrick Bamford in the number nine position.
- Bamford’s recent struggles with goal droughts and missed opportunities make way for Joseph, who has exhibited better form with two goals in his last four outings for both club and country.
- Joseph’s ability to create chances and showcase his athleticism upfront marks a potential boost for the attacking setup, contrasting with Joel Piroe’s limitations in terms of mobility and dynamism when leading the line.
