After two draws on the trot against Fulham and Queens Park Rangers, Leeds United will host second-placed side Brighton & Hove Albion at the Elland Road this Sunday. Garry Monk’s side might be in a very comfortable position of acquiring a playoff berth but they really need to outclass Brighton in order to make a late dash for an automatic promotion.
Predicted Leeds United XI Vs Brighton (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Robert Green is expected to be given the gloves once again, for he has been absolutely outstanding for the Peacocks so far this term. The 37-year-old has collected 37 appearances between the sticks this season, bagging 13 clean sheets and making 75 saves in the process. Apart from throwing himself around, Green has commanded the backline pretty well and this is one the main reasons as to why Leeds United boast of a formidable defensive solidity.
At the heart of their defence, the resilient duo comprising of Pontus Jansson and Kyle Bartley is expected to be given the nod to start. Together, they have been majestic, omnipresent and reliable at the same time. In the left-back slot, Gaetano Berardi is likely to be stationed to breeze up and down the left flank whereas, on the other side, Luke Ayling should be given the nod. Compiled together, these two full-backs have created 35 chances for Leeds United and a lot would depend upon how they operate against the Seagulls.
Midfield
In the middle of the park, it is likely that we could witness the pairing of Liam Bridcutt and Ronaldo Vieira to form a double-pivot. They would be entrusted with the responsibility to not only cushion the back four but to also enable a neat attacking surge from the midfield sector by bringing the full-backs into the equation as well.
On the left wing, January transfer window signing Alfonso Pedraza deserves to get a start once again, whereas, on the right wing, we are expecting the promising youngster Hadi Sacko to start at the expense of Kemar Roofe to show his industrious toil from the word go, for Roofe looked severely off-colour against QPR. To be utilised in the No. 10 role is Pablo Hernandez who has created 68 chances, scored 4 goals and registered 8 assists for the Whites so far this campaign.
Attack
When it comes to catering to the striker’s requirements of the club, Chris Wood has been the irreplaceable element up front. The Kiwi has already bagged 22 goals in 35 appearances and should be starting the proceedings against Chris Hughton’s side.
Predicted Line-Up:
Green
Ayling- Bartley- Jansson- Berardi
Bridcutt- Vieira
Sacko- Hernandez- Pedraza
Wood
Statistics Credits: Squawka.
