Leeds United are hoping to get back to winning ways once again as they lock horns with Crystal Palace on Saturday. The Whites are coming on the back of a disappointing result that saw them slump to a 4-1 defeat to Leicester City on Monday. However, they have performed well away from home so far this campaign and Marcelo Bielsa’s men will, no doubt, set their sights on all three points.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Crystal Palace
Defence
Despite conceding four goals against Leicester City, Bielsa is unlikely to make any changes to his defensive setup, especially after getting Liam Cooper back from injury. The Leeds captain should continue to form the heart of the four-man backline alongside new signing Robin Koch, who will be hoping for a more stable performance this time out.
Luke Ayling has performed well for Leeds United this season. The right-back remains a key asset for the Whites in defence, although his services could also be needed going forward. The same applies to left-back Stuart Dallas, who scored the only goal of the game in the 4-1 defeat to Leicester City.
Illan Meslier is an undisputed choice in between the sticks, having emerged as one of the most promising goalkeepers in the Premier League this campaign. He will be hoping for a second back to back clean sheet away from home.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips, unfortunately, will remain out for Leeds United. Manager Bielsa opted to play Mateusz Klich in that holding midfield role last time out but might want to revert that change. It could bode well for Pascal Struijk as he hopes to return to the side at the expense of Jamie Shackleton, who offered very little going forward in the last game.
Nevertheless, Struijk operating at holding midfield means Klich and Pablo Hernandez should be given the freedom to play their natural game. Both these midfielders could play a key role in the second line of press, though they could face stiff competition against a Palace side, who boast the services of James McArthur and Riedewald.
Attack
Rodrigo Moreno has confirmed that he is out after contracting Covid-19. His absence will serve as a major blow for Bielsa. And while it does guarantee a place for Hernandez in the starting lineup, the onus will once again be on Patrick Bamford to provide the productivity.
The striker was in horrendous form against Leicester City and him failing to take care of good chances might once again lead to Leeds’ demise this weekend. He will, however, be supported by the wider offensive duo of Helder Costa and Jack Harrison.
Ian Poveda and Tyler Roberts are both options on the bench while new signing Raphinha is also tipped to be back in contention after missing the last game due to an ankle problem.
