Daniel James axed, Wilfried Gnonto to return as Sam Byram decision made – Predicted Leeds United XI v Rotherham
Daniel Farke could be set to make changes to his Leeds United starting lineup when they return to Championship action against Rotherham on Friday night.
The Whites claimed a 2-1 win in their last game before the international break, but the boss had some injury issues to compete with afterwards that may have carried over.
Added to the fact some players have played in midweek for their national teams ahead of the game, the boss may opt to make some changes to his team to avoid any long-term issues.
Illan Meslier will no doubt continue in goal, continuing to keep summer signing Karl Darlow out of the side with his performances.
In defence Sam Byram was forced off injured in the win over Plymouth which allowed Junior Firpo to make his first appearance of the season. But the hope is that Byram will be fit to return at left-back, meaning the Spaniard should return to the bench.
On the right Luke Ayling continues to be overlooked while Djed Spence continues his recovery from a knee problem, and after returning from international duty early in order to manage his minutes you would expect Archie Gray to continue in the side at right-back.
Pascal Struijk underwent hernia surgery before the break with the hope that he would only miss minimal game time, but Farke is unlikely to rush him back which should see Liam Cooper continue alongside Joe Rodon despite his appearance for Wales in midweek.
The same can be said for Ethan Ampadu who has played every game for the Whites this season and will surely get the nod again should fitness permit, while Glen Kamara should partner him after impressive performances in recent weeks.
In attack Crysencio Summerville has been battling with a shoulder injury but should be fit to play after some time off over the international break, but he could come into the side on the right wing.
That’s because Wilfried Gnonto scored four goals in two games for Italy and deserves to return to the starting lineup after his impressive performances for Italy with his injury record cleared.
Daniel James didn’t feature much for Wales, coming on as a late substitute in both games, and that could open the door for Gnonto to take his spot at Elland Road.
Ahead of them Joel Piroe and Georginio Rutter should continue their partnership which has blossomed this season, although Patrick Bamford will be pushing for a start to make amends for his missed penalty recently.
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