Leeds United welcome Crystal Palace to Elland Road on Saturday and Daniel Farke has some important selection calls to make. The Whites boss has overseen an impressive three-game unbeaten run and last weekend watched his side come from behind to draw 1-1 at Brentford, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin scoring his fourth goal in as many games.
Farke confirmed on Thursday he will have the same squad available for a third straight game, with Lukas Nmecha still showing symptoms of a hamstring injury that kept him out of Brentford and Liverpool. Daniel James (hamstring tendon) and Sean Longstaff (calf) are also out but there are no fresh issues.
The Leeds boss could therefore name an unchanged side on Saturday evening but might also be tempted into a change or two, based on current form and how he intends to suppress opponents Palace. Below is the YEP’s attempt at predicting how Farke could set up at Elland Road.
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1. Predicted Leeds United starting XI vs Crystal Palace
Let's see how Leeds United boss Daniel Farke could line up on Saturday. | Getty Images
2. GK: Lucas Perri
Was rarely tested at Brentford but did make a good save when called upon from Keane Lewis-Potter's effort. Kicking still leaves a lot to be desired, but shot-stopping has been good in recent weeks. | Getty Images
3. CB: Joe Rodon
Saturday will mark consecutive league and cup appearance number 103 for Rodon, who moved on from his Liverpool mistake with a typically dogged performance at Brentford. Enjoyed a few forays forward too. | Getty Images
4. CB: Jaka Bijol
Ensured Brentford top-scorer Igor Thiago didn't get a single touch in the Leeds box last weekend. Will need to do a similar job on Jean-Philippe Mateta. Photo: Ryan Pierse
5. CB: Pascal Struijk
A couple of shaky moments at Brentford but been largely solid since returning to the starting XI. Enjoying the freedom to push into midfield when possible. | Getty Images
6. RWB: Jayden Bogle
Will have a task on his hands with Yeremy Pino and Tyrick Mitchell coming down his side on Saturday. Due a first goal of the season if he can get forward. On four yellow cards so will need to avoid a fifth if he wants to play at Sunderland. | Getty Images