Garry Monk will be looking to play the spoil-sport once again in Leeds United’s promotion push when his side meets the Whites at the St. Andrew’s Stadium. Birmingham City managed an impressive win when the two teams met the last time around at Elland Road.
City would be desperate for three points as they have been dragged into the relegation battle after their point deduction. So the Whites cannot afford to take them lightly. Bielsa would want to consolidate on the second spot after they came back from behind twice to win against Millwall.
Team News
Barry Douglas has been ruled out for the rest of the season as he suffered an injury during the clash against the Lions. Kiko Casilla will be available for this clash after serving his one-match suspension. Kemar Roofe is closing in on a return, and he could make the matchday squad.
Leeds United Predicted Lineup Vs Birmingham City
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Kiko Casilla should be back in goal for the Whites in this away clash. Pontus Jansson and Liam Cooper are expected to partner up once again in central defence. Ezgjan Alioski is likely to continue in the left-back role. Luke Ayling has certainly rediscovered his form, and the right-back scored a crucial goal against Millwall.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips usually goes about his business quietly in midfield. His job would be to protect the back four and create a base for the Leeds United attacks. The Englishman needs to be wary about not giving away possession cheaply in his own half as often; United have conceded goals because of their own undoing.
Mateusz Klich has looked a bit tired in the last few games, but he is set to continue in midfield. Tyler Roberts has shown his versatility by adapting in the attacking midfield role. He should operate once again in those areas. Jack Harrison’s work rate is often impressive, and he should keep his place down the left flank. Pablo Hernandez is the chief orchestrator of things for United in attacking areas. He will start down the right, but often he will occupy central areas during the match.
Attack
Kemar Roofe’s injury isn’t as bad as it was initially thought and he is expected to make the matchday squad. It remains to be seen whether Bielsa would hand him a start straightaway. We expect Patrick Bamford to keep his place and Roofe can be used as an impact substitute later on in the game.
