Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 27 April 2026 16:10, UK

James Justin has been in flying form for Leeds United as part of a back-three defence, but Gabriel Gudmundsson’s injury could mean a change of role.

The Whites were bested in the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea, with Enzo Fernandez’ first-half goal all that separated the two sides.

It was a valiant display from Leeds, who certainly did have their chances to get back into the game.

However, as they pushed on to find an equaliser, they did end up gaining a casualty, with Gudmundsson appearing to pick up a hamstring injury.

Daniel Farke has not issued a definitive update yet, but if fears are to be true, Leeds’ run-in will have to be completed without the Swede and with Justin playing a different role.

James Justin set for Leeds United role change

Justin is well familiar with the wingback role, having routinely played as a left-back or left wing-back throughout his career so far.

However, across this season, some of his best performances have arrived as a wide centre-back.

His role as part of Farke’s three-man defence has provided another string to the Whites’ bow, as he inverts into the middle or makes third-man runs from the back.

Justin’s performance at Wembley was far from his best, but that does not change the facts of how important his role this season has been.

Over the last three games in the Premier League, Leeds have won seven points out of nine, with Justin at centre-back in each of those matches.

However, with Gudmundsson’s injury, Justin, who has been Leeds’ Swiss army knife, is set for another role change.

And one in a position he has not often featured in this season compared to centre-back or right-back.

Is there another way to keep James Justin in the back-three at Leeds?

Unfortunately, Leeds do not have many other options at left wing-back this season, unless Farke does to Sam Byram in the final few matches.

The 32-year-old veteran defender has featured just once this season for the Whites in the Premier League, making that an unlikely solution.

In reality, Justin will be forced out wide with another centre-back such as Joe Rodon taking his place in defence.

It is not an ideal scenario for Leeds, who, after only getting Anton Stach back from injury, could now be without Gudmundsson.