Leeds United will travel to Madejski Stadium to take on Reading in a midweek clash. The Whites have regained their place on the second spot, but Sheffield United are right on their heels. At this stage in the campaign, Bielsa’s men cannot afford to take the gas off the pedal.
The Whites ran out 1-0 winners in the reverse fixture, but the West Yorkshire outfit last managed a league double over Reading way back in 1927-28 season. Therefore history says that the away side is unlikely to come away with all three points. But that is going to be a necessity for Bielsa and Co if they want to continue with their charge towards the English top flight.
Team news
United are currently sweating over Patrick Bamford’s fitness as the striker sustained an injury and was subbed early against Bristol City. Biela did go on to say after the game that he should be available, but it could all depend on how the striker is feeling on the match day. Kemar Roofe is definitely out of this tie. Jack Clarke is back in training, but he could still be one week away from getting into the matchday squad.
Leeds United Predicted Lineup Vs Reading
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Kiko Casilla put on an impressive performance in the last game which ensured three points for his side. The Champions League winner is set to start in goal once again. Liam Cooper and Pontus Jansson have formed a solid partnership at the back and Bielsa is unlikely to break that even though Gaetano Berardi is now available.
Luke Ayling has improved in the last two games, and he is set to occupy the right-back spot. Ezgjan Alioski’s performance as a left-back is keeping Barry Douglas out, and we don’t see that changing in this game as well.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips is also facing a minor issue, but he should be ready in time for this encounter. The Englishman is set to start in the deepest role in midfield. Mateusz Klich is once again going to play in his usual central midfield role. Tyler Roberts has adapted well as a no. 10 but he needs to keep on improving. The former West Brom man is expected to play as an attacking midfielder.
Jack Harrison is set to continue on the left flank. The experienced Pablo Hernandez is expected to operate from the right.
Attack
We are expecting Bamford to shake off his injury and start in this game. The fact that the forward suffered an injury in the 10th minute and was only substituted around the hour mark suggests that the injury wasn’t too severe.
