MOT View: Predicted Leeds starting XI after Under-23s reveal

Dave is a huge Leeds fan and ardent disciple of Bielsa ball. A career in print magazines that included editing PC Zone, launching PokerPlayer and redesigning The Big Issue has finally led Dave to writing about the love of his life, Leeds United. It’s been a tough 2020 but the single scariest moment was the first quarter of the game against Man City. Rodrigo will be the saviour this season.

Published on:

07 Mar 2021, 4:00 am

Leeds United fans were hoping to see one of Kalvin Phillips and Rodrigo involved in Under-23s action on Friday.

Marcelo Bielsa had said that some players returning from injury would play in the game against Wolves.

And fans weren't disappointed when Rodrigo started for the Under-23s and scored two goals in a brilliant 45 minutes.

There was no sign of Phillips and that means he's unlikely to be fit enough to play against West Ham on Monday.

Ian Poveda also made his comeback from injury after being an unused sub in the under-23s game on Monday and he could well be back on the bench.

With Phillips out again, it means that Pascal Struijk is likely to play in the holding midfield role, with Diego Llorente and Liam Cooper in the heart of the defence.

If Rodrigo is only considered fit enough for the bench then Pablo Hernandez has a big chance of starting for the first time since November.

However, Rodrigo is such a big player and he looked so good in the 45 minutes v Wolves that if he recovers okay, we think he goes straight back into the side.

Leeds have missed the creativity from Rodrigo and we'd prefer to see Roberts used as an impact sub if needed. Helder Costa will be the other player to drop out, with Jack Harrison coming back in.

After the exciting Under-23s reveal on Friday, this is the starting XI we expect to see on Monday Night Football.

In other Leeds United news, 'Mayhem' – Phil Hay pinpoints Man City clash for return of long-term injured Leeds star

Leeds United

Pascal Struijk