Ilia Gruev axed as Farke makes three changes – Leeds predicted XI v Millwall
Daniel Farke could make three changes to his Leeds United line-up to take on Millwall after dropping points against Portsmouth.
The Whites will be looking to get back on track as they welcome the Lions to Elland Road on Wednesday (19 March).
Leeds fell to their first loss since November with the 1-0 defeat at Fratton Park as Colby Bishop scored the winner, clipping over Illan Meslier.
The Elland Road side remain at the top of the table, but now level on points with Sheffield United and with the Blades playing on Tuesday, Farke’s men could need all three points to return top.
With that in mind, Farke could make several changes to his side with Ilia Gruev, Brenden Aaronson and Jayden Bogle all potentially dropping to the bench.
This could make way for Joe Rothwell, Willy Gnonto and Sam Byram to come into the starting XI.
Farke to make Gruev decision for Millwall clash
Meslier did not cover himself in glory again against Portsmouth with his indecision costing him again and leading to yet another argument with Joe Rodon at the back.
However, Farke is expected to stick by the goalkeeper, while Karl Darlow watches on from the bench.
Rodon will retain his place alongside Pascal Struijk and Junior Firpo, while Byram could be introduced into defence for added security.
Against Pompey, Bogle failed to win any tackles and lost the majority of his duels [FotMob], and with only one more booking needed before the weekend for a two-match ban, he may be rested.
Ao Tanaka has been a shining light in the Leeds midfield this season but Rothwell may be introduced into the side while Gruev drops to the bench.
Gruev struggled to get into the game against Portsmouth and did not have an influence at either end, becoming a passenger in this side again.
| Passing accuracy | 88% |
| Touches | 66 |
| Crossing accuracy | 0% |
| Long ball accuracy | 0% |
| Passes into the final third | 2 |
| Defensive actions | 8 |
| Tackles won | 0 |
| Duels won | 6/9 |
Aaronson could be axed by Farke
Daniel James impressed against Portsmouth, despite it being an afternoon to forget and therefore is expected to retain his place alongside Manor Solomon.
However, Farke could bring Gnonto into the team to take Aaronson’s place. Aaronson was withdrawn after 68 minutes at Fratton Park having had just 21 touches of the ball on the afternoon.
Having lost seven of his duels, Farke may need to make a change to provide some more energy at the top end of the pitch.
Joel Piroe will be annoyed with himself after missing two key chances against Portsmouth but he remains Leeds’ best striker as joint top scorer in the league with 15 for the season and therefore, he will be expected to put things right.
The boss knows how important three points against big rivals could be in the title race and he will need whoever he picks to be up to their best levels for a big night at Elland Road.