Leeds United stumbled, huffed and puffed their way to a third-place finish when direct promotion spots were in their grasp for the most parts of the season. The Whites cannot let a bad last month affect them as they need to prepare for the challenge which Frank Lampard’s Derby County would present to them in the first leg of the playoff semifinals at Pride Park.
The Yorkshire outfit managed to do a league double on Derby County this season but what transpired in the last month would make the Rams feel that they are on level terms with the Whites going into this game. Marcelo Bielsa needs to pick his side up as they are winless in their last four games. In terms of momentum, one might say that Derby County are in a better situation.
Team News
Patrick Bamford is suspended for the tie as he was found guilty of deceiving the officials with his play acting. Ezgjan Alioski and Barry Douglas are certain to miss out due to their respective injuries. Forward Tyler Roberts is also not going to be available after Bielsa confirmed about this. Pontus Jansson is a significant doubt, and he could be assessed closer to the matchday.
Leeds United Predicted Lineup Vs Derby County
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Kiko Casilla came in for a lot of criticism for his display against Ipswich, and he needs to show more command of his area in goal. He should start in between the sticks. Liam Cooper will play in the heart of the defence. Gaetano Berardi could partner him if Pontus Jansson isn’t able to get back fit in time.
Stuart Dallas is an obvious choice for the left back role now that both Alioski and Douglas are out. Luke Ayling is set to be in his usual right-back position.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips will play as the defensive midfielder. Mateusz Klich will look to link up play, and he is set to start in central midfield. He is likely to be partnered by Adam Forshaw, and it would be interesting to see whether Forshaw will be in a slightly attacking role or Klich. Pablo Hernandez is the chief orchestrator for his side in the attacking third, and a lot will rest on him. He is set to start from the right. Jack Harrison is expected to start from the left.
Attack
Kemar Roofe is going to lead the line as Bamford is suspended from this tie.
