Exit-linked Illan Meslier to be axed in four changes – Leeds United predicted XI v Salford City
Daniel Farke could be set to make four changes to his Leeds United starting lineup as they face League Two side Salford City in the second round of the EFL Cup on Tuesday (29 August).
Following their seven-goal thriller against Ipswich as they earned a hard-fought three points in a 4-3 victory, Farke will be keen to harness the good energy at the club with another emphatic win.
While he will be keen to reduce the number of goals his team concede this time round, Farke may opt to select some of his star players to ensure progression to the next round of the competition and to continue the growing optimism at the club.
Illan Meslier’s move away from the club [The Athletic] is looking more and more unlikely as the window’s end draws nearer. However, he will likely be dropped for Karl Darlow. He started the Whites’ last League Cup clash against Shrewsbury and Farke will be keen to keep him sharp and match-ready despite not getting the expected number-one shirt.
Despite his mistake in giving away an Ipswich goal in the Championship, Farke will be keen to keep Cody Drameh’s confidence high and give him another chance against lower-league opposition. With Sam Byram injured, the youngster could partner the more experienced Charlie Cresswell, who himself would replace Pascal Struijk st centre-back.
Joe Rodon and Luke Ayling may also keep their place. Despite his own goal against Ipswich, the Tottenham loanee made up for his mistake with a good performance. Ayling meanwhile will provide needed experience and leadership with the Whites aiming to avoid the receiving end of a giant-killing.
Moving into the midfield, Farke may keep the same core four players that started against Ipswich. Injuries continue to be an issue for Leeds and this clash would have been the perfect opportunity for Daniel James to gain some momentum.
However, as reported by LeedsLive (27 August), Farke noted the Welshman’s situation has “slightly improved” from last week, but “a few concerns” remain, so is unlikely to feature against Salford.
Therefore, Willy Gnonto will likely retain this position against Salford as he bids to prove himself once against to the Elland Road faithful about his ability to perform for the club following his self-inflicted absence from the squad.
Ethan Ampadu could keep his place after his exceptional start to life in Yorkshire, and Jamie Shackleton could come in to earn himself some more quality first-team minutes in this cup clash.
Following his game-changing goal against Ipswich, Luis Sinisterra could keep his spot. Reports of his departure have been prevalent throughout the transfer window, with The Palace Way reporting (28 August) that Crystal Palace were the latest to hold talks about the 24-year-old.
In what could be his last game in a Leeds United shirt, Sinisterra may share the pitch with young star Archie Gray. Gray has had a wonderful start to the season, with Farke calling him “outstanding”, as per the Yorkshire Evening Post (7 August) after making his full debut at the start of the season.
While still just 17 years of age, Farke will want to continue the youngster’s development and a cup tie of this nature would suit him well.
Up top and Leeds fans may be excited if Joel Piroe makes his second consecutive start. While many star players are often dropped for cup ties, Farke will want a strong starting XI to capitalise on Leeds’ growing momentum. The former Swansea man got himself a debut goal against Ipswich and Farke will be eager to continue his integration into the side.
In other Leeds United news, the club have contacted a Premier League side regarding a loan for a defender.