Leeds United will continue their push on the upper end of the league table as they take on Southampton on Tuesday. The Whites have an outside chance of finishing in the top seven and secure European football if they can win their remaining matches and other results go in their favour. They have been in good touch recently, notably securing a thumping 4-0 win over Burnley on the weekend.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup vs Southampton
Defence
Marcelo Bielsa made a surprising decision of excluding captain Liam Cooper from the starting lineup against Burnley. It appears the experienced centre-back, might once again have to settle for a place on the bench, as the Argentine tactician continues to favour the young Pascal Struijk.
The Dutchman should yet again operate at the heart of Leeds United’s four-man backline, alongside the in-form Diego Llorente. It seemed these two have the potential of becoming the club’s first-choice defensive pairing next season, so it will be important on their part to end the campaign on a positive note.
Elsewhere, Bielsa should continue with the fullback duo of Luke Ayling and Ezgjan Alioski, with the latter likely to assume a more attacking role – hoping to aid his teammates in the final third.
Meanwhile, Illan Meslier is gearing up for his final away game of the campaign. The young goalkeeper has been one of the rising stars in the Premier League this season and will be keen on clinching a spot in France’s squad for the upcoming Euros.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips was reinstated in the starting eleven in the last game against Burnley. He remains a guaranteed starter in the number six position, where the midfielder will be in charge of circulating possession and occasionally recycling the ball.
The Englishman should be partnered by Mateusz Klich, who has been in excellent form in recent matches and is likely to get the nod ahead of Tyler Roberts. He and Stuart Dallas are expected to operate in the advanced midfield roles, hoping to add the creative essence in the final third while also playing a vital role in the second line of press.
Attack
Moving forward, Raphinha and Jack Harrison are guaranteed starters for Leeds United out wide. Bielsa, though, doesn’t have too many options either, with Helder Costa being ruled out for the entire season.
The Whites attack, meanwhile, should be spearheaded by none other than Patrick Bamford. The former Chelsea starlet has only netted five times since the turn of the year, so it will be important for him to finish the campaign on a strong note.
