Leeds United have had a stop-start kind of a season so far as they have impressed in some games, but they have also been poor on occasions as well. However, they still occupy the third spot in the league table and are trailing table-toppers West Brom by just two points. The Whites will now host Queens Park Rangers at Elland Road in the next round of fixtures in the Championship.
The West Yorkshire side have won their last two home games against the London outfit. However, United have struggled to get going at home this season, and they have scored just five goals at Elland Road so far. Leeds United have more points on the road this season, and they have the joint-best record away from home along with West Brom who too have picked up 14 points. Leeds United’s last four home wins have all been 1-0 and Bielsa will hope that his team can be more clinical in the final third when they face QPR.
Team News: Captain Liam Cooper has recovered faster than expected from his groin injury, and he will be expected to return to the lineup. Jamie Shackleton is also back fit, and he could make the matchday squad. Pablo Hernandez is also closing in on full fitness, but it remains to be seen whether he will be included in the eleven or not. Adam Forshaw will have to miss out due to a hip injury. Barry Douglas is also a significant doubt because of a knee issue.
Leeds United Predicted Lineup Vs QPR
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Kiko Casilla will keep his place in goal. Liam Cooper should start in place of Gaetano Berardi in the centre back role. He should be partnered by summer arrival Ben White who has been a calming presence at the back. Ezgjan Alioski is expected to start in the left-back role. Luke Ayling could continue as the right-back option.
Midfield
‘Yorkshire Pirlo’ Kalvin Phillips will be in his usual defensive midfield position. Mateusz Klich has looked jaded in the last few games, but Bielsa doesn’t have too many options so the Polish midfielder will continue in midfield. He could once again be partnered by Stuart Dallas who is filling in for the injured Forshaw and Shackleton.
Hernandez’s situation could be touch and go. If he doesn’t recover, then, Helder Costa will start on the right flank again. Manchester City loanee Jack Harrison is expected to occupy the left-wing spot.
Attack
Patrick Bamford has now gone nine games without scoring, and we feel that its time for Bielsa to give Eddie Nketiah his first start in the Championship.
