Patrick Bamford returns in two changes – Leeds United predicted XI v Preston
Daniel Farke could make two changes to his Leeds United XI for their upcoming clash with Preston at Elland Road.
Leeds moved one step closer to a return to the Premier League with a 1-0 win away to Middlesbrough on Tuesday evening, though it didn’t come without consequence.
Dan James, who scored his 12th goal of the season at Riverside, was withdrawn with injury, leaving Farke concerned ahead of the next encounter.
With that in mind, the German could switch up his starting 11 in a bid to strengthen their promotion hopes, and one of those changes could see Patrick Bamford start.
Farke to stick with unchanged defence v Preston
Karl Darlow is yet to put a foot wrong since replacing Illan Meslier for Leeds, and it’s likely that he will retain his place in the 11 until the end of the campaign.
Jayden Bogle and Junior Firpo have both been influential to their promotion push this season, and providing they are available, both should start at Elland Road.
| Leeds United – final five | Date |
| Preston (H) | 12 April |
| Oxford (A) | 18 April |
| Stoke (H) | 21 April |
| Bristol City (H) | 28 April |
| Plymouth (A) | 3 May |
Pascal Struijk’s injury has left Farke with very few defensive options, with Etham Ampadu likely to partner Joe Rodon in the heart of defence yet again.
Ao Tanaka was far from his best against Middlesbrough, but based on the quality he has showcased throughout the season, he isn’t likely to be dropped, with Ilia Gruev expected to play alongside him in a double pivot in the Leeds midfield.
Brenden Aaronson axed in two attacking changes for Leeds
Brenden Aaronson was poor once again for the Whites, and he will be fortunate to stay in the team, with Joel Piroe anticipated to drop into the 10 role for this clash.
James suffered a hamstring injury at Riverside, with Farke hinting that the Welshman will be unavailable for the Preston game, which could see Willy Gnonto afforded another opportunity to stake his claim for a place under the German, with Manor Solomon almost certainly set to start on the opposite flank.
Bamford has shown signs of promise since his return, and after having a goal wrongly disallowed for offside, Farke may look to utilise his experience up top in a bid to seal promotion ahead of the final five games.