Daniel Farke could axe Georginio Rutter as two changes made – Leeds United predicted XI v Preston North End
Daniel Farke may be tempted to make a couple of changes as Leeds United prepare to face Preston North End at Elland Road.
The Whites will be seeking revenge against Preston on Saturday (20 January) following their 2-1 loss at Deepdale on Boxing Day.
Leeds have started 2024 with three successive 3-0 victories, most recently easing to three points away at Cardiff City last weekend.
Three members of the front four were on the scoresheet in South Wales, with Crysencio Summerville the exception.
The Netherlands Under-21s international also missed a penalty, although he did at least claim an assist for Georginio Rutter’s goal.
Summerville has been one of the best players anywhere in the division this term, so Farke will start him when available.
However, given the wealth of options the German has available, he could leave out another attacker with the midweek match against Norwich City in mind.
That man could be Rutter, with Joe Gelhardt potentially a surprise inclusion just off Patrick Bamford in the absence of fellow fringe player Willy Gnonto.
If nothing else, it will put Rangers and Celtic-linked ace Gelhardt in the shop window ahead of the January transfer window closing.
Gnonto has himself been touted as a target for West Ham this week, but he is a major doubt with a hip problem.
Bamford has scored in three successive games and looks certain to lead the line, while James may also keep his place on the right.
Indeed, with Ilia Gruev and Glen Kamara the favourites to get the nod in holding midfield, the only other change could come in defence.
Junior Firpo came off injured late on against Cardiff, meaning Sam Byram may get the chance to add to his 18 starts this season.
Having yet to concede this year, makeshift centre-back Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon and Archie Gray look good value to start alongside Byram if he is given the nod.
In other Leeds United news, Don Goodman has slammed a Whites player for his “unsavoury” conduct at Thorp Arch.
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