Predicted Leeds United starting XI v Arsenal after major injury news confirmed
Leeds United welcome Arsenal to Elland Road on Saturday as they look to pick up a huge three points in the Premier League.
It won’t be easy for Marcelo Bielsa, who doesn’t even have 11 senior players available to choose from as the injury crisis worsens.
Robin Koch is back and available, but Jamie Shackleton and Dan James joined the absentees during the crushing loss at Manchester City.
Illan Meslier will continue in goal despite conceding 10 in his previous two games, and he will be desperate for a clean-sheet somewhere.
The back four will actually look as experienced as it has all season with Koch thrown straight back into the action.
Stuart Dallas will play on the left, Luke Ayling on the right, and then the German will partner Diego Llorente in the heart of the side – his first start since Manchester United away in August.
Adam Forshaw has been one of the best for the Whites since his return, and he will play in the Kalvin Phillips role once again.
Mateusz Klich has had a turbulent couple of weeks at Elland Road with abuse thrown his way, but he will start in midfield with limited options elsewhere.
Tyler Roberts will once again drop into the playmaker role, with James’ absence meaning the final third is getting weaker.
Raphinha and Jack Harrison will once again start out wide, and they will be the main attacking sources to cause the Gunners problems.
Leeds fans are once again about to get their wish too, with Joe Gelhardt set to lead the line with no-one readily available.
Here’s how we expect the Whites to line up against Arsenal…
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are ready to make major January signings with unexpected deals to force action