Leeds United predicted XI v Chelsea: Jamie Shackleton starts
Leeds United will be looking to get something from their game against Chelsea on Wednesday night (May 11).
After Everton’s back-to-back wins, the Whites now find themselves in the relegation zone with a fixture against the current world and European champions.
While the Blues are not in form, they’re still favourites for this game and expected to steamroll Leeds on the day.
Ahead of the game, Jesse Marsch issued positive updates for two Leeds players and we’re expecting both of them to start.
He said, “Liam Cooper — last time I said he would be ready, he trained the day before and had a small reaction leading to the match and we felt it was prudent he not push himself with the possibility we could lose him.
“I believe, he trained a bit yesterday. After that and now into this next phase he is better. I believe he will be available.”
Speaking about Shackleton, Marsch said, “It’s one of the possibilities.
“Jamie was hurt for a relatively long stretch since I’ve been here but I’ve got to know him more and more, I’ve watched him with the (under-)23s, I’ve also gone back and watched the games he’s played this season and the moments he’s had on the pitch so I think he can potentially fit in whether we play with four or five.”
With Luke Ayling and Stuart Dallas both unavailable for the season, Shackleton seems the obvious fit at right wing-back.
He last started the 7-0 loss against Manchester City way back in December.
While Dan James or Raphinha have been hinted at possibilities, they’re not as sound defensively to play in that role.
James is unlikely to start this one as we see Rodrigo leading the line with Jack Harrison playing off the left.
Apart from that, most of the team picks itself.