Ao Tanaka starts in three changes – Leeds United predicted XI vs Aston Villa
Daniel Farke could make as many as three changes when Leeds face Aston Villa.
Leeds United are back in the relegation conversation, despite a relatively strong start to the campaign.
As a result, the pressure is starting to mount on Farke ahead of four crucial fixtures, with the 49ers almost certainly set to pull the trigger if results don’t improve.
Leeds’ home encounter with Aston Villa this weekend is starting to look like a must-win game if he is to remain at Elland Road, and to achieve that, he could make three changes to the starting 11 that suffered defeat against Nottingham Forest last time out.
Pascal Struijk returns to Leeds starting 11
Lucas Perri has had a mixed start to life as Leeds’ number one, though he will keep his place in the side when Aston Villa travel to Elland Road.
One change could occur in front of him, with Jaka Bijol yet to impress in the Premier League, meaning a return could be on the cards for Pascal Struijk.
He would be partnered by Joe Rodon, with Jayden Bogle and Gabriel Gudmundsson occupying the two full-back positions.
Ethan Ampadu has struggled on his return to the Premier League, and Farke may look to bring Ao Tanaka back into the starting 11 in his place.
By doing so, it would likely see a double pivot of Sean Longstaff and Tanaka, with Anton Stach playing as a slightly more advanced central midfielder.
Daniel Farke has striker dilemma ahead of Aston Villa clash
Dan James could be named in the starting 11 for the first time since Leeds‘ goalless draw with Newcastle back in August, with Brenden Aaronson dropping out for his return.
Noah Okafor has been a rare positive this season, and providing he is fit, he will be occupying the left flank, with Lukas Nmecha leading the line.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s struggles in attack have been well documented, and it leaves Farke with a dilemma going forward.
It’s clear that he was the number one striker at the start of the campaign, though with Nmecha having scored last time out, the German is likely to be handed a starting role for the next few games.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @motleedsnews