Leeds’ winless run in the Premier League could stretch to six games unless they overcome West Ham at Elland Road on Saturday.
The Whites have drawn three of their opening five matches, but a win has so far evaded Marcelo Bielsa’s all-out attacking machine.
Conceding goals has also been an issue for Leeds – 12 have been shipped in those five games – and there’s bad news in terms of team selection for the game against the Hammers. Diego Llorente and Robin Koch are injured, and Pascal Struijk is suspended – leaving Bielsa short of options in central defence.
That could lead to a change in shape, but you never really know what you’re going to get from the Argentine. One thing’s for sure, Patrick Bamford won’t be around either – he’s got an ankle problem.
Illan Meslier (GK) – Leeds’ number one is heading for the very top of the game. A superbly talented shot-stopper.
Luke Ayling (CB) – Always dependable and may need to guide a young teammate through a tough 90 minutes.
Charlie Cresswell (CB) – Kalvin Phillips is an option in central defence, but will Bielsa want to move his best player out of the holding role? Possibly not.
Liam Cooper (CB) – The captain and leader of Leeds’ backine, Cooper can expect a tough afternoon against the dynamic Michail Antonio.
Stuart Dallas (RWB) – The most versatile player in the Premier League could play literally anywhere. It could even be at right wing-back!
Kalvin Phillips (CM) – Continues to go from strength to strength at the base of midfield. Would be a shame if he’s forced to fill in at the back.
Mateusz Klich (CM) – Not always the first name on the team sheet but Patrick Bamford’s injury woes up top may cement his place.
Junior Firpo (LWB) – Coolly converted a penalty midweek in the Carabao Cup shootout against Fulham – a much needed confidence booster.
Raphinha (RW) – Isn’t 100% fit but is the heartbeat of Leeds’ team going forward. Supremely intelligent on the ball and a real threat.
Rodrigo (CF) – Patrick Bamford’s ankle injury could lead to a role further forward for Rodrigo, something he’s more than used to from his time at Valencia.
Daniel James (LW) – Should have an interesting afternoon against the never-ending Duracell battery that is Vladimir Coufal. Has some serious pace to burn but needs more consistency with his end product.
