Archie Gray and Daniel James axed, Djed Spence to start – Predicted Leeds United XI v Middlesbrough
Daniel Farke could be set to make a couple of changes to his Leeds United starting lineup for the Championship clash with Middlesbrough on Saturday afternoon.
The Whites made it six wins on the bounce at Elland Road in midweek with a 3-1 win over Swansea to close the gap on Leicester at the top of the table, while Michael Carrick’s side claimed all three points with a dominant win over Preston in their last outing.
But with a short turnaround between games Farke could look to shuffle the pack now that he has a near fully-fit squad to choose from.
Illan Meslier’s position between the sticks is safe and he will continue in the side, while Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk have firmly established themselves as the first-choice central defensive pairing.
Sam Byram has the edge over Junior Firpo at left-back right now, but this could be the perfect opportunity to give Djed Spence a start against his old club after his return to fitness.
That means the boss has the option to move Archie Gray back into his preferred central midfield role but the 17-year-old is more likely to head to the bench thanks to the excellent form of duo Glen Kamara and Ethan Ampadu ahead of him.
Joel Piroe and Georginio Rutter’s fantastic form and partnership blossomed further in midweek as both players got on the scoresheet, so they will start once again ahead of Patrick Bamford and Joe Gelhardt.
On the left wing Crysencio Summerville is the first name on the team sheet now with his incredible performances this season and he will start, meaning the boss has a decision to make on the right wing.
Ian Poveda, Jaidon Anthony and Wilfried Gnonto are all pushing for Daniel James’ spot in the side and the Welshman struggled despite his goal in the week. That should open the door for Italy winger Gnonto to come in and stake a claim, albeit in an unnatural position.
In other Leeds news, January exit on the cards for Whites attacker.