Following an early exit from the Carabao Cup, Leeds United will hope for better fortunes as they kickstart their FA Cup campaign against Crawley Town on Sunday. The Whites are heading into this game on the back of a 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, and after a congested schedule during the first half of the campaign, Marcelo Bielsa will have the opportunity to ring in the changes this weekend.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Crawley Town
Defence
Bielsa has some key decisions to make considering the fact that players like Luke Ayling and Stuart Dallas have been an ever-present figure in the Leeds United backline this season. Ayling, in particular, could be given a breather as the Englishman looks to make way for youngster Oliver Casey, who could form the central defensive partnership alongside Pascal Struijk.
Stuart Dallas, unfortunately, may once again have to continue at right-back. Bielsa simply doesn’t have any alternatives in his position unless he plans to start U-23 signing Cody Drameh, which remains unlikely. As for the left-back position, we might see Leif Davis making a return to the side, at the expense of Ezgjan Alioski.
Kiko Casilla, meanwhile, is almost guaranteed to step in for Illan Meslier in between the sticks after struggling with a lack of game-time in the Premier League this season.
Midfield
It won’t be surprising to see Kalvin Phillips starting this weekend given the fact that the midfielder will remain suspended for the upcoming Premier League match against Brighton & Hove Albion.
His presence in the middle of the park should provide some experience and guidance in what is otherwise expected to be a young Leeds United side. As such, we may see Jamie Shackleton getting the nod ahead of Mateusz Klich as his midfield partner.
Another change in the middle of the park could see Pablo Hernandez coming in for Rodrigo Moreno, although the veteran playmaker is expected to feature further upfront.
Attack
This game serves as an ideal opportunity for Bielsa to finally start with Ian Poveda. The young attacker has made a lot of impression with his performances from the bench, and it is about time he gets an opportunity in the starting eleven. He should replace Raphinha while Helder Costa may also come in at the expense of Jack Harrison on the opposite flank.
And finally, in the number nine role, Patrick Bamford may have to settle for a place on the bench. In his stead, Bielsa should favour Tyler Roberts if he is fit to play this weekend.
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