Derby County will host Leeds United in the first leg of the playoff semi-finals this weekend. The Rams had to play their last few games as a virtual knock out ties as Middlesbrough and Bristol City were breathing down their neck. Lampard’s men held their nerve and secured a crucial win in the last game against West Brom to enter into the semifinals.
They will square up against the Whites who managed to do a double on them in the League. However, the Yorkshire outfit are winless in their last four games and are coming on the back of a defeat against bottom-placed Ipswich Town. Therefore the home team should be upbeat, and Lampard might fancy himself in getting the better of Bielsa the third time around.
Team News
Leeds United could be handed an early advantage as Derby could be without their striker Martyn Waghorn who suffered an injury in the final league game of the season. Lampard recently said, ”It is an Achilles’ injury, a sore Achilles, and one to be assessed.” Apart from that, Lampard should have a strong squad to choose from in this all-important first leg.
Derby County predicted lineup Vs Leeds United
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Kelle Roos has established himself as the no. 1 in goal ahead of the experienced Scott Carson. Roos is set to start in between the sticks. Richard Keogh suffered an injury scare against the Swans, but he played the last tie against the Baggies. He will start at the back alongside Fikayo Tomoti who has done exceedingly well this season.
Scott Malone will occupy the left back place in the back four. Jayden Bogle is going to reprise his usual role in the right back position.
Midfield
Lampard would be wary of Leeds United’s fluid style of football, and he might want to have an extra man in midfield for that. Therefore we expect Tom Huddlestone to play in this game. Bradley Johnson should partner him in central areas.
Mason Mount will don the role of a creator, and he is set to play as an attacking midfielder. With 17 goals to his name this season, Harry Wilson is the top scorer for the Rams, and he will start from the right. The Liverpool youngster often looks to drift inside and occupy the central areas. Tom Lawrence will be in a similar role down the left.
Attack
With Waghorn’s injury issue, summer signing Jack Marriott can get a chance to lead the line. The experienced David Nugent is also in contention to start up front, but Marriott might edge it.
