Leeds United are hoping to get back on track as they take on Fulham on Tuesday in the third round of the Carabao Cup. The Whites are winless in the Premier League and are in desperate search of a victory in this encounter, knowing it could go a long way in boosting their confidence. Leeds had secured a comfortable 3-0 triumph over Crewe Alexandra in the first round, but things could get a lot more difficult against the Championship side this midweek.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Fulham
Defence
Marcelo Bielsa is facing a major crisis in the defensive department. Pascal Struijk is serving two of his three-game ban following his red card against Liverpool while Diego Llorente and Robin Koch have been ruled out due to respective injuries.
Luke Ayling, too, picked up a knock in the draw with Newcastle United, leaving Bielsa with Liam Cooper as the only recognised option at centre-back. As such, the Argentine tactician might be forced to deploy youngster Charlie Cresswell in the centre-back role this week.
The Englishman is expected to feature alongside club captain Cooper, while Stuart Dallas should fill in for Ayling at right-back. Due to a lack of alternatives, Junior Firpo might be forced to continue on the opposite flank.
In goal, Bielsa has a decision to make. Illan Meslier is the undisputed number one goalkeeper for Leeds United but this being a cup game, we might witness new signing Kristoffer Klaesson making his debut this midweek.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips is always an option at the base of the Leeds United midfield. But given the recent slew of injuries, Bielsa might be cautious with his team selection and hand a breather to the English international.
In his absence, we might see Adam Forshaw making a rare appearance. The former Middlesbrough midfielder has returned to full fitness after remaining on the sidelines for 18 months. He is in contention to start this game, most likely alongside Mateusz Klich, as Bielsa switches to a double-pivot due to the absence of a reliable number six like Phillips.
Attack
In the attack, there could be a start for Crysencio Summerville. The young Dutchman should replace Raphinha in the right-wing slot while Tyler Roberts will be given the chance to prove himself in the number ten position after a disappointing second-half showing against Newcastle United.
The same can be said for his compatriot and new signing Daniel James as he looks to replace Jack Harrison at left-wing. The Leeds United frontline, meanwhile, could be led by Rodrigo Moreno, although Bielsa always has the option of deploying Sam Greenwood as the main number nine.
