Leeds United had a frantic last day of the winter transfer window as they missed out on signing Daniel James of Swansea City by a whisker. The winger had completed his medical, but the deal fell through in the last moments. However, the players and the manager cannot let that affect them as they face a big test when they face Norwich City at home.
The Whites are currently leading the Canaries by three points, and a home win would improve their grip on the top of the table considerably. Bielsa’s men are going through a rocky phase as they have lost four of their last six encounters in all competitions. They had to rely on a late goal to secure a win against 21st placed Rotherham United, and there is no doubt that Daniel Farke would be smelling blood as they try to go level on points with the Yorkshire outfit.
Team News
Stuart Dallas, Gaetano Berardi, Patrick Bamford and Barry Douglas are likely to be unavailable. Bielsa had announced his team for the tie two days in advance.
Leeds United’s predicted lineup Vs Norwich City
Formation (4-1-4-1)
Defence
Kiko Casilla proved his worth when he stopped a brilliant long-range effort in his debut game. The Champions League winner is definitely going to start in goal. Pontus Jansson is set to be back in the starting lineup after serving his one-game suspension. He is set to begin in the heart of the defence. Captain Liam Cooper is likely to partner the Swede in defence.
Ezgjan Alioski has filled in well in the left back role and his work rate has been impressive. He is going to start in defence once again. Luke Ayling is a nailed on starter from the right.
Midfield
Bielsa had already announced his team, and he is set to prefer Adam Forshaw in the defensive midfield role over Kalvin Phillips. Forshaw has been playing in that role in the last few games and maybe the manager wants to continue with that. Phillips is likely to act as a cover to the two central defenders from the bench.
Mateusz Klich and Pablo Hernandez are nailed on starters in the middle of the park. Tyler Roberts is likely to play down the right flank. Manchester City loanee Jack Harrison is expected to start on the left. Roberts’ cameo against Rotherham was impressive, and he is going to be rewarded with a start.
Attack
Kemar Roofe is once against expected to lead the line for the Whites.
