Pascal Struijk still out in the cold as Daniel Farke makes two changes – Leeds predicted XI vs Brighton
Leeds United will hope to keep up their momentum when they face Brighton on Saturday.
Leeds beat West Ham 2-1 on 24 October in a clash that many observers regarded as a relegation six-pointer.
Daniel Farke will be looking to put an even bigger gap between his side and the relegation zone when his side travel to the AMEX Stadium on 1 November.
Gabriel Gudmundsson, Harry Gray and Wilfried Gnonto are potential absentees for the Elland Road outfit.
Daniel Farke may stick with Jaka Bijol over Pascal Struijk vs Brighton
Pascal Struijk has been a stalwart for Farke since the German joined Leeds in 2023, but illness kept him on the bench for the win over the Hammers.
Jaka Bijol replaced the 26-year-old in the clash, making an impressive debut for the Peacocks, and the Dutchman may be left in the cold when the Whites face the Seagulls.
James Justin is predicted to come in for Gudmundsson, after he left the pitch after 44 minutes last time out, with a back injury.
The rest of the backline is expected to remain the same, with Lucas Perri staying between the sticks, and Jayden Bogle and Joe Rodon on the right side of defence.
In midfield, Anton Stach might get the nod over Ao Tanaka, as the Japan international failed to win either of the two ground duels that he attempted in the victory, as per Sofascore.
Ethan Ampadu and Sean Longstaff are expected to keep their places in the engine room when the Whites make the trip to the south coast.
Brenden Aaronson is predicted to retain his spot on the right flank despite Dan James returning to action in the closing stages of the contest.
Meanwhile, Noah Okafor is expected to stay on the left side of the attack, as he has been a brilliant addition since joining the LS11 outfit from AC Milan.
Finally, Dominic Calvert-Lewin might remain upfront, over the likes of Lucas Nmecha and Joel Piroe, as he offers a physical and creative presence.
- Read More: Sources: Leeds line up approach to sign Fabio Carvalho in January, loan deal on the cards
Struijk may have to bide his time for a Leeds return
Bijol’s debut proved why Farke was willing to spend a big sum on him in the summer, as he showed off his passing range and defensive ability in the victory over Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.
The Slovenian defender completed 93 per cent of his total passes, and 48 of his 50 attempted passes inside his own half, per Sofascore.
He made five recoveries, two interceptions and 10 clearances against the Irons, and also won all three of the aerial duels that he attempted for a 100% success rate.
Struijk may have a battle on his hands to get back into the team.
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