Leeds United lock horns with their relegation rival Watford this Saturday, hoping to earn a few points to keep them in the top flight. Both sides are desperate and the Whites are hoping to go four games undefeated this season.
Leeds United Team News
Patrick Bamford (foot) is set to miss the next six weeks with his devastating season with injuries and the latest he suffered was in the last match. Joe Gelhardt (leg) suffered an injury during his U23 appearance which forces him out. Junior Firpo could be back for the Watford clash but will likely take his place on the bench.
“The point is certainly important in our season, but to have two big players like Liam and Kalvin back in the group and closer to full fitness is massive for us at this moment,” said Jesse Marsch
“We’re going to need those guys in a big way. They provide a big presence to our team, so that was a big step forward for us.”
Jesse Marsch will probably go for the 4-2-3-1 formation with minor tweaks as compared to the last game against Southhampton. Kalvin Phillips will look to start after his return last Saturday. Joe Gelhardt misses out due to an injury during his U23 appearance.
Defence
Illan Meslier operates in the goal for the Whites. Showing no signs of trouble against Southhampton, Meslier is guaranteed to start.
Liam Cooper looked comfortable playing full time after his return last Saturday, and he will be forming the backline with Diego Llorente.
Luke Ayling and Stuart Dallas haven’t missed a single match this season and are set to start in the wing-back positions ahead of Illan Meslier.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips is back in action after being out for 17 weeks and he has proved his right to a starting place. He and Mateusz Klich will anchor the midfield as they exploit the Hornets’ defence. Adam Forshaw will take his place on the bench.
The Brazilian winger has not delivered up to his mark but hangs on as they head into an important matchup. Raphinha, Rodrigo and Jack Harrison will remain ahead in the midfield to bolster the attack. Harrison gets to keep his name in the starting eleven due to Patrick Bamford’s injury.
Attack
Dino James leads the attack on the Hornets. Joe Gelhardt’s injury solves Marsch’s attacking dilemma as he opts for an experienced player at Vicarage Road compared to a young number nine Sam Greenwood.
