Leeds United would like to maintain their unbeaten streak when they host Newport County in the Carabao Cup. Leeds have settled pretty well under new manager Thomas Christiansen but this could prove to be a stern test for the Whites.
Leeds’s primary striker Chris Wood has been sold to Burnley and this could be the ideal platform to test his reserve bench. The gaffer might make a number of changes and could give chances to a number of promising youngsters.
The Yorkshire based club have included Mallik Wilks, Eoghan Stokes and Paudie O’Connor in their squad against Newport County and the growing injury list might pave a way for them.
This is only the second time Leeds will be facing Newport. The first encounter happened way back in 1949 when the Whites suffered a 3-1 defeat.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Leeds United Lineup Against Newport County
Defence
Robert Green is in the contention to start his first game of the season as Christiansen is likely to rest a number of his key players ahead of their crucial match against Nottingham Forest in the Championship this Saturday. Green hasn’t been used till now and should make his first start for the Whites.
The defence could see a number of new arrivals. Cameron Borthwick-Jackson could be slotted in the left back position.
Connor Shaughnessy was very effective against Fulham and could be back into the starting lineup. Liam Cooper could be his partner in the defence.
Vurnon Anita has been deployed on the left side so far but with Borthwick-Jackson’s involvement, is poised to start on the right side.
Midfield
Mateusz Klich and Ronaldo Vieira had a very good game against Port Vale and they should start in the centre of the pitch.
Attack
Pablo Hernandez’s injury is a concern for Christiansen and Samu Saiz is in the line to replace him. The new arrival had a rousing start to his Leeds career as he netted a hat-trick in his first competitive appearance for the Whites.
Hadi Sacko and Stuart Dallas are set to start on the wings. Dallas had a goal to his name against Sunderland and Christiansen is set to reward the player with a chance to shine further.
Picking a striker could be a tricky situation for the gaffer. Chris Wood’s departure and Caleb Ekuban’s injury has put the gaffer in a limbo and he will be forced to give Souleymane Doukara a start.
