Daniel Farke set to start Leeds United player for only second time v Millwall
Daniel Farke is likely to rotate his Leeds United side heavily ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup fourth-round tie with Millwall at Elland Road.
Farke established in his pre-match press conference that with an almost fully fit squad at his disposal, changes aplenty can be expected as the Whites juggle a hectic league and FA Cup schedule.
Wednesday’s 2-0 win at Coventry City took United five points clear at the top of the Championship, and their promotion push is very much the priority for Farke.
However, while not giving away exactly how many changes he would make, the German has made clear that one star who has been limited is set to start only his second match for the Peacocks.
Josuha Guilavogui set to start for Leeds United v Millwall
Mirror Football reported in its print edition (8 February, page 3) that Josuha Guilavogui – often a late substitute for United – is set to earn a rare start in the white shirt as Farke’s side take on the Lions at Elland Road.
The seven-capped French international’s previous start also came in last month’s FA Cup third-round victory over Harrogate Town, in which his somewhat shaky performance came under scrutiny.
Farke said: “It was one of my best decisions to bring him in – it’s no coincidence that we have such a good run right now with him, such a great team atmosphere.
“I would rate him as one of my best signings; leaders for me are natural born, they lead by example.”
Leeds United to field unrecognisable starting XI v Millwall
Guilavogui’s 13 cameo appearances off the bench in the Championship this term have come across both defence and midfield, and it remains to be seen in which position he’ll start against Millwall.
The 34-year-old is by far the oldest outfielder in United’s squad and did look off the pace against League Two opposition in the form of Harrogate, but more minutes will surely mean he gets up to speed.
Often coming off the bench to see matches out – with the Whites usually two or three (or seven) goals to the good – Guilavogui faces an entirely different proposition in a win-or-bust FA Cup tie.
Millwall will undoubtedly want to take the game to United in a physical sense, and this could influence where Farke elects to play Guilavogui, given his lack of pace compared to the likes of Joe Rodon.
Guilavogui’s influence on the squad in an off-field capacity has already shown that his signing on a free transfer has been worthwhile, but he’ll now want to prove he has a big part to play on-field too.