Leeds United are looking to capitalise on their 3-0 win over Southampton, as they lock horns with Aston Villa on Saturday. The Whites have endured a mixed run of form in recent weeks and are in desperate need of a sustained run of performances if they are to remain in the top half of the Premier League table. A win this weekend, in that regard, could go a long way in helping their cause.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Aston Villa
Defence
Marcelo Bielsa’s changed three at the back fared rather well against Southampton in the last game. However, he might want to revert to a usual back four against an Aston Villa side that favours the traditional 4-2-3-1.
Diego Llorente could be the defensive player sacrificed, ahead of Pascal Struijk, who has been in excellent form recently. The young Dutchman, therefore, could continue at centre-back alongside club captain Liam Cooper.
Elsewhere, Luke Ayling should also return to his usual right-back role, with Ezgjan Alioski featuring on the opposite flank. It will be interesting to see how Bielsa looks to balance his approach as both his fullbacks like to venture forward.
There should be no change in goal as Illan Meslier hopes to retain yet another clean sheet in the Premier League this weekend.
Midfield
Mateusz Klich is a slight doubt in midfield heading into this game, although we expect the Pole to return to full fitness in time. The Pole should operate alongside Stuart Dallas in the double-pivot, as Leeds continue to deal with the absence of Kalvin Phillips, who is once again struggling with an injury.
Jamie Shackleton is an option should Klich fails to recover, although the youngster is also suffering from a knock. So alternatively, Bielsa could retain his three-man backline, with Dallas playing in midfield while Alioski and Ayling could operate as wingbacks in a 3-3-3-1.
Attack
Jack Harrison and Raphinha are guaranteed starters in the Leeds United frontline that will be spearheaded by the top-scorer Patrick Bamford. It will be interesting to see how they fare against an Aston Villa backline that has remained solid time and time again, in crunch encounters.
Elsewhere, Tyler Roberts should continue in the number ten role, in the absence of Rodrigo. The young Welshman is starting to settle into first-team football, notably impressing in the recent win over Southampton. His dynamism could be crucial as the Whites look to breach the opposing backline this weekend.
