Credit: Imago

Matthew Chadder

Sat 12 April 2025 11:33, UK Updated Sat 12 April 2025 12:12, UK

Daniel Farke has made just one change as Leeds United host Preston North End.

The Whites have the opportunity to reclaim top spot in the Championship with victory over Preston at Elland Road on Saturday (12 April).

Unfortunately, Farke has been dealt a Dan James injury blow ahead of the clash.

However, despite this, Leeds are still expected to run rampant against Preston in West Yorkshire as they look to shake off their recent struggles.

James’ replacement named for Leeds v Preston

Considering their superior position in the Championship, Leeds are heavy favourites to beat Preston on Saturday and claim three points, which would put them back in the driving seat for automatic promotion.

And after their 1-0 win against Middlesbrough at Riverside Stadium on Tuesday (8 April), Farke has decided to stick by the majority of the team which claimed the three points in North Yorkshire.

However, he has been forced into one change due to James’ injury setback.

James scored the winner for Leeds against Middlesbrough. Therefore, his replacement, Willy Gnonto, will be hoping to make a similar impact in his place against Preston.

Leeds cannot afford to drop points against Preston

Leeds have not been at their best in recent months.

However, they cannot afford to drop points at home against a Preston team who are sitting 16th in the Championship, especially not considering how tight it is at the top of the table.

Farke has come under some pressure as of late. Therefore, this match represents a perfect opportunity for the German and his players to get their promotion charge back on track.

As a result, Farke has shown a lot of faith in his players by sticking by the team which ended Leeds’ miserable three-match run without a win by beating Middlesbrough.

Therefore, those players must ensure they repay their manager’s faith.