Leeds United are eyeing for their first win of the new season in the Premier League as they take on Newcastle United on Friday. The Whites have had a disastrous start to the campaign, registering just two points in two matches and conceding eleven goals in the process. They are in desperate need of a win as Marcelo Bielsa’s men look to kickstart their recovery after a slow start.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup Vs Newcastle United
Defence
In just a matter of a week, Bielsa has lost the majority of his central defensive options. Star player Diego Llorente picked up a knock once again in the defeat over Liverpool while Pascal Struijk was given a straight red card for his challenge on Harvey Elliott. He has been suspended for three matches, joining Llorente and Robin Koch in the list of defensive absentees for Leeds United.
Bielsa, therefore, has a decision to make and given the lack of options, the Argentine tactician will likely opt for a flexible 3-3-3-1 formation, with Luke Ayling and Liam Cooper primarily occupying the central defensive roles while holding midfielder Kalvin Phillips may have to operate as the third auxiliary centre-back.
Illan Meslier remains a guaranteed starter in between the sticks despite conceding 11 goals in four matches. He will be desperate for his second clean sheet of the campaign so far.
Midfield
Phillips’ more conservative role in the absence of three major centre-backs should force Mateusz Klich to operate deeper in midfield. He is expected to fill in for the Englishman in the holding midfield position, especially during defensive phases.
Elsewhere, Leeds United are likely to persist with the fullback duo of Stuart Dallas and Junior Firpo. While the latter is expected to provide the width with his marauding runs forward, Dallas will be tasked with the responsibility of providing additional aid to Klich in central midfield.
Attack
In the attack, Leeds United were boosted by positive news regarding Patrick Bamford. The former Chelsea forward has been cleared to participate against Newcastle United and is set to spearhead the Leeds attack on Friday.
The Englishman is likely to be partnered by the wide attacking duo of Raphinha and Jack Harrison, with new signing Daniel James being an option on the bench. But there could be one slight change in the attack, with Tyler Roberts replacing Rodrigo Moreno in the attacking midfield slot.
