Ampadu to start after Farke update – Leeds United predicted XI v Oxford
Leeds United captain Ethan Ampadu could be set to return against Oxford United in a makeshift defence.
The Welshman has stepped up his return from injury in recent weeks, playing a total of 13 minutes in the Whites last two matches.
He is expected to return to the starting XI at centre-back alongside Joe Rodon after Daniel Farke said in his pre-match press conference [19 December] that Pascal Struijk had a 50 per cent chance to play.
The German also confirmed that Maximilian Wober is unlikely to feature and that Ilia Gruev and Junior Firpo are ruled out.
Daniel Farke makes two changes for Leeds United
Illan Meslier will be looking to bounce back between the sticks after his mistake in the 1-1 draw with Preston on Saturday (14 December).
On the right side of defence, Jayden Bogle will likely feature with Wober not expected to be fit for the contest with the relegation strugglers.
Meanwhile, Sam Byram will probably continue on the left side, with Firpo out of the clash against Oxford.
At the heart of the defence, the ever-present Joe Rodon could be partnered by returning skipper Ampadu to complete a makeshift backline for the Whites.
Ao Tanaka has wowed since he came into Farke’s side and is expected to continue at the base of midfield alongside the industrious Joe Rothwell.
Changes in attack
Dan James is likely to continue on the right flank, his form has been electric in recent weeks making him undroppable at the moment.
The Welshman has four goal contributions in his last six matches for the Whites.
On the other side, Italian winger Wilfried Gnonto could be rested with Largie Ramazani potentially replacing him.
Brenden Aaronson is expected to continue in the number ten role, despite unconvincing performances leading to speculation over his future in the role.
Up top, Joel Piroe will likely be preferred over Mateo Joseph, the former Swansea man has five more goal contributions than the Spaniard, so is expected to get the nod.
In other Leeds news, David Prutton reacts with shock to a comment made about Farke by his co-host.
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