Farke axes Ilia Gruev as bold call made – Leeds United starting XI v West Brom
Daniel Farke has made a bold change to his midfield as Leeds United prepare to take on West Brom at Elland Road.
Leeds come into the game unbeaten in 16 Championship matches and will be eager to make it 17 with a win that will keep them at least five points clear at the top of the Championship table this weekend.
However, with the Baggies sitting fifth in the league under Tony Mowbray and also seeking a push for promotion to the Premier League this term, it may well be a tough game.
Daniel Farke brings Joe Rothwell into Leeds XI
Leeds United confirmed their starting line-up to take on West Brom via X (1 March), with Farke making just one change to his side.
The boss was already set to be without captain Ethan Ampadu, Patrick Bamford and Max Wober, who have all had to miss out due to injury issues.
Despite leaving it late for a win against Sheffield United, after gaining all three points, Farke has made just one change to his team with Joe Rothwell, 30, taking the place of the benched Ilia Gruev.
Although Farke didn’t add to his squad during the winter transfer window, he is in a good place with a number of quality players who are able to contribute to the required levels for the side.
Therefore, you can’t imagine Farke will ever be in a position where he doesn’t have complete confidence in the team he is putting out for the hope of another victory.
Leeds United looking for another win against West Brom
Although their form has been spectacular throughout the season so far, Leeds have struggled to find themselves in a comfortable position at times of late with goals coming very close to the end of games.
| Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Goals for | Goals against | Goal difference | Points | |
| Leeds United | 34 | 22 | 9 | 3 | 71 | 21 | 50 | 75 |
With recent wins over Sheffield United and Sunderland, the Whites have proven they have the ability to produce results against the sides closer to them in the league table, which will no doubt give them some confidence coming into this clash.
It has not been the easiest of afternoons for the Whites already, with the Leeds team coach breaking down on its way to Elland Road, although this should not put Farke’s men off their mission too much.
The Blades take on QPR on Saturday at 3pm, so if the West Yorkshire outfit can gain three points against the Baggies, it would surely put a bit more pressure on their opponents’ afternoon kick-off.