Leeds United will host Birmingham City at Elland Road this weekend after the international break. Bielsa’s men have had a shaky few weeks as they lost against Millwall, but they were able to topple West Brom earlier. The Whites need to bring in more consistency, especially in the final third if they want to go on a winning run after dropping to the fifth spot on the table.
Birmingham City were able to stop their slide right before the international break as after three back to back defeats; they managed to win a dramatic game against Middlesbrough at home. They are currently languishing at the 12th spot on the table and Bielsa’s men should go in as the favourites. However, we have seen United struggling to go past teams they were expected to beat off late.
Team News: Captain Liam Cooper is surely going to miss out due to a groin issue. Bielsa had indicated (Leeds Live) that Pablo Hernandez could be available after the international break, but his situation is still uncertain. Jamie Shackleton is expected to be available from next month.
Adam Forshaw’s situation is also going to be touch and go, and like in Hernandez’s case, Bielsa had revealed that he could be back after the break. Gaetano Berardi’s red card was rescinded so he will be available for selection.
Leeds United Predicted Lineup Vs Birmingham City
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Kiko Casilla is set to continue in goal for the Whites. Ben White has done exceedingly well so far, and he should play in defence. Gaetano Berard should partner him at the back. Ezgjan Alioski has become the first choice option over Barry Douglas so the Macedonian should start at left-back. Even though Luke Ayling is available, Stuart Dallas is likely to get the nod at right-back as he has been in terrific form.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips will be in his usual defensive midfield role. Mateusz Klich is a nailed-on starter in the middle. We are expecting Adam Forshaw to be fit for this tie, so he should partner him in the middle.
Pablo Hernandez should start on the right if he recovers in time. In that case, would like to see Helder Costa begin on the left in place of Jack Harrison. If Hernandez doesn’t recover, then Costa can play on the right with Harrison coming in on the left.
Attack
Nketiah vs Bamford has been a big debate but knowing Bielsa, he will likely opt with Patrick Bamford once again in the striker’s role.
