Ethan Ampadu axed in four changes – Leeds United confirmed XI v Blackburn
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.
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.
In other Leeds news, Dean Saunders was delighted with one star’s form after coming back from disappointment on international duty.
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