Patrick Bamford to be axed, Georginio Rutter to start – Leeds United predicted XI v Fulham in FA Cup clash
Javi Gracia could look to make minimal changes to his Leeds United side as they face Fulham in the FA Cup fifth round in midweek at Craven Cottage.
The Whites claimed their first win since October in Gracia’s first game in charge, with left-back Junior Firpo notching the winning goal in the 77th minute to help them out of the relegation zone.
But now Gracia’s attention turns to the domestic cup competition and he could look to use this as an opportunity to go strong again and build momentum with his players in their new way of playing.
Illan Meslier is the number one goalkeeper ahead of Joel Robles, and the French youngster is likely to keep his place in the side for the foreseeable to ensure there is a run of consistency in the defence.
Luke Ayling and Robin Koch were both excellent in the win over Southampton, while Firpo’s winning goal should also see him keep his place in the side.
Max Wober’s position could come under threat with Pascal Struijk and Liam Cooper set to return against Chelsea from injuries, but for this game he should keep his place with limited options available.
In midfield there are options, with Marc Roca returning to the bench at the weekend, but Gracia is unlikely to divert too far away from a winning formula and so United States internationals Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams should continue in the heart of the team.
Further forward there are even more options, and it’s here where Gracia could look to make some changes.
Jack Harrison started the game but struggled to make an impact initially, drawing criticism from fans and journalists alike. He is likely to replace in the side, with Crysencio Summerville impressive in his weekend performance off the bench.
On the other wing Wilfried Gnonto has made himself undroppable with his qualities and performances this season, and he will likely take up the left hand side once again.
In the number ten position, Rodrigo is still out injured and not expected back any time soon. With Harrison likely to sit this one out on the bench and Luis Sinisterra still injured, Brenden Aaronson should continue in the position.
Up front Patrick Bamford has struggled this season after an initially good start to 2023, and it could finally be time for the club’s star record-signing Georginio Rutter to get his first start for Leeds.
He was signed as a striker to help solve the team’s goal issues, and should slot into that position with the freedom to interchange with those around him to give the side a new option.
Leeds predicted XI: Meslier; Ayling, Koch, Wober, Firpo; Adams, McKennie; Summerville, Aaronson, Gnonto; Rutter
In other Leeds news, Gabriel Agbonlahor still thinks Leeds are in big trouble despite their win over Southampton.
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