Leeds United take on Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road
Leeds United take on Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road

Ethan Ampadu axed in four changes – Leeds United confirmed XI v Blackburn

Jonathan Burnett

Jonny is a University of Leeds journalism graduate who became part of the FootballInsider team in Spring 2024, and recently worked as Head of Media for Widnes Vikings Rugby League club. Writing as a freelance reporter and commentator for The Sporting News and StatsPerform, he has covered matches in competitions including the FIFA Men's and Women's World Cups, as well as the Champions League, Women's Euro 2022, Six Nations and the Rugby Union World Cup.

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Daniel Farke has made four changes to his starting XI as Leeds United host Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road on New Years' Day.

The Whites named their starting side on X (1 January) as they look to make it four wins in a row against a Blackburn side who beat them 1-0 at Ewood Park at the end of November, their sole defeat in the last 10.

Ethan Ampadu, Largie Ramazani, Wilfried Gnonto and Mateo Joseph all drop to the bench as Farke rotates his side for their third game in just nine days, making four changes for the second game in a row.

Joe Rothwell, Dan James, Manor Solomon and Joel Piroe all come into the XI as the Peacocks look to get revenge on Rovers, with Rothwell displacing skipper Ampadu in the side against his former club.

Daniel Farke rings changes again for Leeds United v Blackburn

While Farke is a manager who values continuity more than most – particularly with the Whites on a winning streak – he's also well aware of the toil the Championship's festive schedule can take on players.

Having made four changes to face Derby last time out, Farke once again makes use of the embarrasment of riches he has throughout United's squad, allowing the likes of James, Solomon and Piroe to come in.

Leeds United starting XI v Blackburn Rovers

Ampadu's return to the side following a lengthy period out injured has been instrumental for the Whites' successive away victories at Stoke and Derby, but Rothwell and Ao Tanaka is still a formidable pairing.

Brenden Aaronson's winner to dispatch Derby last time out was sublime, and while he's the only player in the front four to keep his place, adding James, Piroe and Solomon to the mix will give Blackburn plenty to think about.

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