MOT View: Big issue for Bielsa means just 2nd start for youngster: Predicted Leeds XI v Man City
Leeds United have a very tough test on their hands when they host Man City at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon.
The game is live on Sky Sports with a 5.30pm kick-off and Man City go into the match bruised after taking a 5-2 mauling at the hands of Leicester.
Leeds will be respectful but not fearful. They proved against Liverpool that they can live with the best teams in Europe.
However, there are two problems for Leeds. The first is Pablo Hernandez – the playmaker is still out injured.
The second is Jack Harrison. He’s on loan from Man City and can’t play against his parent club.
Neither Rodrigo nor Tyler Roberts have played particularly brilliantly in his place but we expect the Spain number nine to get the nod on Saturday.
He’s a world-class player and won’t be overawed at lining up against Man City. He also showed signs of a big improvement in the second half against Sheffield United and had a real impact on the game.
Who will replace Jack Harrison? Bielsa will go one of two ways here. He could play Gjanni Alioski, who will offer more defensively.
However, we think he’s going to give 20-year-old Ian Poveda just his second start for the club.
Poveda signed from Man City and has been getting more game time recently under Bielsa.
He played 30 minutes in the game against Sheffield United and we think Poveda starting would be a real statement of attacking intent from Bielsa.
The rest of the side should be unchanged from the XI that beat Sheffield United, but Diego Llorente will be on the bench as he looks to make his Leeds debut.
The game will come too soon for Michael Cuisance even if he signs later on Wednesday.
This is the starting XI we think Bielsa will name for the mega-clash on Saturday.
In other Leeds United news, Reliable journalist: Big Leeds transfer closer as club gives permission for player to leave