Leeds United hope to have just eight fixtures of the 2024/25 campaign remaining as they look to win automatic promotion. Daniel Farke’s side will be desperate to do the job in 46 games, with a two or three-match increase indicating a second consecutive drop into the play-offs.
It’s the business end of the season now and Farke will likely be more inclined to stick with those he has trusted all season, while those on the fringes of first-team action could be made to keep on in their supporting role. The Leeds manager’s selection decisions have been a hot topic among fans all season, from the No.9 debate to midfield rotation and wide options.
But who has Farke turned to most often this season? Well, the YEP has used data from FBRef.com to take a look at how many minutes have been given to each of the 26 players to represent Leeds in the Championship - take a look below.
19. Junior Firpo - 2,095 minutes
The first to break that 2,000-minute barrier, despite a lengthy lay-off with a hamstring injury over Christmas. Returned to instantly reclaim his spot as first-choice left-back and will keep it, barring any further fitness issues. Contract expires this summer. Photo: Harry Murphy
20. Joe Rothwell - 2,159 minutes
Insisted he wasn't signing to make up the numbers and has proven it as many people's surprise package of the campaign. Minutes have been upped by long-term injuries for Ampadu and Gruev but the 30-year-old has been well-deserving of a starting spot all season. Farke tending to use the on-loan Bournemouth man in home games when his side can dominate more. Photo: George Wood
21. Daniel James - 2,348 minutes
Every other winger has had moments of form but James is the one who has remained consistent virtually all season - admittedly with a recent drop off. The Welshman has made that right-wing spot his own and formed an excellent understanding with Bogle behind him. | Getty Images
22. Joel Piroe - 2,440 minutes
There was genuine debate over Piroe vs Joseph earlier this season but that has disappeared, with the former taking his chance and banging in the goals. On 15 for the season so far and started every league game since New Year's Day. | Getty Images
23. Pascal Struijk - 2,648 minutes
A muscle injury kept Struijk out for a brief period earlier this year but he's been virtually ever-present either side of that absence. Often leads the side out in Ampadu's absence and come up with some big goals in recent weeks. | Getty Images
24. Ao Tanaka - 2,668 minutes
Took a while to get his first start against Norwich in October, as often happens under Farke, and even that was only due to Ampadu's first injury. The £3m summer signing has been a revelation this season, starting 30 of Leeds' last 31 games, with midfield rotation coming between Rothwell and Gruev. Photo: George Wood