Jamie Shackleton returns, Liam Cooper benched in six changes – Leeds United confirmed XI to face Peterborough United
Daniel Farke has made six changes to his Leeds United line-up for the FA Cup third-round tie at Peterborough United on Sunday (7 January), as confirmed on the club’s X account.
The German has chosen to freshen up his squad for the fixture at London Road, with Jamie Shackleton back involved for the first time since October 28.
Liam Cooper is dropped to the bench for the fixture, with Ethan Ampadu perhaps starting in defence alongside Archie Gray, Joe Rodon and Junior Firpo.
Ilia Gruev gets a run out in midfield with Shackleton looking like the other central midfielder in the line-up. Further forward, Patrick Bamford keeps his spot after scoring against Birmingham City last time out and is supported by Wilfried Gnonto, Jaidon Anthony and Joel Piroe.
Time for a cup run?
After a blip that saw Leeds take just one win from a possible five Championship outings, the Whites were back in form with a resounding 3-0 victory over Birmingham City on New Year’s Day, a result that leaves the gap to second place Ipswich Town at seven points.
Today, though, provides an altogether different task with League One high-flyers providing a genuine threat at a banana skin for Daniel Farke’s side and he will be keen to ensure that his side stay focused and attempt to maintain the momentum from the Birmingham match.
Some players will be desperate to impress and prove they deserve more game time under Farke, who has by and large been reluctant to change up his side unless injury or suspension has necessitated it.
Incredibly, Leeds have only gone beyond the third round four times in the past 14 attempts and have not made the quarter-finals since the 2002-03 season. Maybe this is the year they can finally go on a decent cup run…but this tie certainly will not be easy.
In other Leeds United news, a near-100% wage offer will need to be made for one player to depart Elland Road this January.