Leeds United are back on top of the table after losing the crown for a few days, but things are not going to get easy from here as they take on Brentford next at Elland Road. The Whites cannot afford to slip up if they want to retain their place at the top of the table as all their rivals are neck and neck with them. West Bromwich Albion who sit on the fourth spot, currently trails United by just one point so any slip up in this game could be costly.
Brentford have had a decent start as they find themselves sixth in the Championship table at the moment. However, they are winless in their last five games in all competitions.
Team News
Injuries have made the Whites drop some points off late, but the players covering haven’t done too poorly. Kemar Roofe was expected to be back by this time, but he isn’t going to make it for the Brentford game. Pablo Hernandez, Conor Shaughnessy, Gaetano Berardi and Patrick Bamford continue to be absent. Recently Barry Douglas suffered a muscle issue, and the severity of it is not yet known, but it is likely that he wouldn’t be part of this encounter against the Bees.
Leeds United’s Predicted Lineup Vs Brentford
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Bailey Peacock Farrell hasn’t been tested much off late in goal, and he would want that to carry on as United have dominated proceedings. He will start in goal. With little to no room to manoeuvre, Liam Cooper and Pontus Jansson would once again start at the back. Bielsa would hope that both of them can keep out goals as well as injuries as there are no other centre-backs available at the manager’s disposal.
Barry Douglas has played in every game so far in the league, and the former Wolves left-back would be a big miss. Young Tom Pearce should get the nod to start against Brentford. Luke Ayling will once again reprise his fullback role down the right.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips had showcased why Bielsa trusted him even when he had some mediocre games as the young Englishman has done well of late. He is expected to start once again in front of the defence. Mateusz Klich and Samuel Saiz will start in central midfield, with Saiz having more freedom to go forward.
Out wide, young Jack Harrison will continue to start from the right and down the left, Macedonian Ezgjan Alioski would get the nod. All the attacking players have lacked the finishing in the last few games, and the gaffer would hope that they can bury the chances they create otherwise it could be another frustrating afternoon for the West Yorkshire outfit.
Attack
Tyler Roberts has shown he can be trusted in the absence of main strikers and his match-winning goal from midweek should give him immense confidence. He will once again lead the line for his side.
