Charlton Atheltic will host Leeds United at the Valley this weekend. The Addicks got off to a good start, but they have now suffered back to back defeats in the Championship. Leeds United are still reigning supreme at the top of the table on goal difference, but the Whites could have put some daylight between themselves and the chasing back if they were more clinical in front of the opposition goal.
Lee Bowyer’s men might be 8th on the table right now, but only three points separate them from the Whites. Therefore the former Leeds United player will look to get one over his old employers and bridge that gap this weekend.
What to expect from Leeds United?
Not having a plan B has hurt Leeds in the past. They are likely to play in their typical high octane pressing game. We are expecting the Whites to have more control of the possession even though they will be away from home. Bielsa will hope that his team can execute and finish off their chances in the final third.
Not having Pablo Hernandez for this tie will be a big blow for them as the Spaniard is usually the creator in chief for them. However, this will allow Helder Costa to shine as he is in line to get his first start in the Championship. We can expect him to take on the Charlton defenders on the right.
Leeds Predicted lineup: Casilla; Dallas, White, Cooper, Alioski; Phillips, Shackleton, Klich; Costa, Harrison, Bamford
What to expect from Bowyer’s side?
Charlton are likely to set up in a 4-4-2 diamond which could look like 4-1-2-1-2. The problem for the Addicks has been scoring goals in recent times as they have not found the back of the ent in their last two outings. Incidentally, Charlton’s top scorer Taylor has been injured after the international break, and that is when the goals have dried up. The likes of Hemed and Leko will need to step up against the Elland Road outfit.
However, for Charlton to stand a chance in this game, they would have to win the midfield battle. We have seen before that this Leeds United team can be pressed and harassed as a unit. Therefore, we would like to see Bowyer take a proactive approach instead of sitting in deep and allowing the Whites to dominate possession.
Charlton Predicted Lineup– Phillips; Solly, Lockyer, Sarr, Purrington; Cullen, Pratley, Gallagher, Williams; Leko, Hemed
Key men for Leeds
Mateusz Klich is the engine room of the United team and his energy and ability to drive the ball forward make him a crucial player in the middle. Upfront, Bielsa will hope that Bamford will be able to get his name on the scoresheet.
Key men for Charlton
Jonny Williams is expected to play at the top of the diamond, and he can cause some trouble for the Leeds defenders while playing on the counter. Defensively, Tom Lockyer will need to have an excellent game to keep the Whites attackers at bay on Saturday.
Odds
Charlton Athletic – 5/1
Draw – 16/5
Leeds United – 1/2
