According to Leeds Live, Leeds United are missing several players against Crystal Palace. Rodrigo, Robin Koch and Diego Llorente have been ruled out for the clash, joining Adam Forshaw and Gaetano Berardi on the sidelines. Ian Poveda is also unlikely to feature after picking up an ankle injury, further depleting the resources of Marcelo Bielsa.
A Major Blow For Leeds United?
Rodrigo Moreno’s continued absence certainly doesn’t bode well for Leeds United, who need a more natural attacker operating in behind Patrick Bamford. The Spaniard has had his fair share of problems settling into the Premier League but is a vital player nonetheless. His experience and ability to join the attacker could have added more offensive firepower to this Leeds United setup.
Elsewhere, Robin Koch and Diego Llorente have barely featured in the Leeds United defence for the past few months. Both players are still yet to prove themselves in the Premier League, but they do bring the quality necessary to survive in the top-flight. Their quality in the build-up, in particular, will be missed once again.
One interesting absentee in this game is Ian Poveda. The former Man City youngster has been quite unlucky with his lack of opportunities, despite performing well. His trickery and a direct style of play rob Bielsa of an excellent super-sub.
How Should Bielsa Deal With These Injuries?
The absence of Rodrigo saw Bielsa deploy Mateusz Klich in the attacking midfield position. The Pole is likely to start once again, though the Leeds United manager could explore the option of Pablo Hernandez. The Spaniard offers more experience, and his ability to probe the opposition defence should be useful against a Palace side that are expected to defend deep.
Pascal Struijk, on the other hand, should continue deputising for the injured defensive trifecta of Berardi, Koch and Llorente. The youngster has produced mixed performances this campaign but is still the best alternative Leeds United currently have in their ranks. The Dutchman was excellent in the win over Leicester City, and fans will hope that he can rekindle that performance on Monday.
And finally, the absence of Poveda should see Bielsa rely on the services of Helder Costa and Tyler Roberts as his primary reinforcements in the offensive department.
