Leeds United brace themselves for a tough challenge ahead as they take on Chelsea on Saturday. The Whites have enjoyed a decent run of form lately, winning five points from their last three matches and remaining unbeaten in the process. They will be hoping to avoid a defeat if they are to continue the upward trend in the Premier League table this weekend.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Chelsea
Defence
Marcelo Bielsa was boosted by the return of Luke Ayling in the last matchday, with the defender even starting in the draw with Brentford. He is expected to retain his role at right-back this weekend.
Unfortunately, though, club captain Liam Cooper did pick up a knock. His hamstring issue could see him get ruled out of action for a while, meaning the onus will now be on Pascal Struijk to form the central defensive partnership alongside Diego Llorente.
Bielsa is unlikely to make any changes elsewhere, with Junior Firpo tipped to continue at left-back. It is imperative that these returning players perform and provide cover for Illan Meslier, who remains a guaranteed starter in between the sticks.
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Midfield
Kalvin Phillips was another player who picked up a hamstring injury in the game against Brentford. He is likely to remain out for at least two months, serving as a massive blow for Leeds United.
With him being unavailable, Bielsa is likely to deploy Adam Forshaw in a withdrawn role, with additional assistance by the two advanced midfielders in Mateusz Klich and Stuart Dallas.
Bielsa also has the option of deploying Rodrigo Moreno in the attacking midfield slot, in case he prefers more creativity upfront.
Attack
Patrick Bamford made his return to the pitch to score a sensational last-minute equalizer for Leeds United. The Whites are hoping that he is fit enough to start this encounter and spearhead the frontline.
Bamford will be keen on making an impression against his former club, with the assistance of Raphinha and Daniel James. However, we are expecting the striker to start on the bench, with Tyler Roberts likely to retain his place in the team. Rodrigo Moreno, Jack Harrison and Crysensio Summerville are other alternatives for Bielsa in the attacking department.
