Leeds United’s focus will briefly turn away from Premier League survival when they travel to Derby County in the FA Cup third round on Sunday. Daniel Farke’s side fell to their first league defeat in eight at Newcastle United on Wednesday and will see a trip to the mid-table Championship outfit as an opportunity to rebuild momentum.
Having lost to second-tier strugglers Sheffield Wednesday in the Carabao Cup back in August, Leeds will know they cannot be complacent but with their Premier League status still on the line the priority is undoubtedly elsewhere. It’s been a hectic winter period for Farke’s side and so rotation is expected, where possible.
Leeds haven’t quite got the squad depth to name a completely different line-up to the one that started at Newcastle, particularly with a few fitness issues, but there will be changes. With that in mind, the YEP has attempted to predict how Farke could line his side up at Pride Park.
7. CM: Ilia Gruev
Ran himself into the ground at Newcastle but has an incredible engine and proved last season he can cope with the quick turnarounds. Ethan Ampadu could make it too but it's probably not worth the risk. | Getty Images
8. CM: Ao Tanaka
Has struggled to find a consistent place in this physical Leeds team, albeit there have been moments of brilliance. Should keep his side ticking at Pride Park, with possession likely to be dominated. | Getty Images
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9. RW: Wilfried Gnonto
Impact off the bench has not translated to a starting spot since his half-time removal at Manchester City. It's been a frustrating campaign for the Italian, who will see Sunday as a chance send a message to Farke. | Getty Images
10. CAM: Joel Piroe
Another who just hasn't got the minutes this season and is arguably fifth or sixth-choice upfront. Sunday should at least provide an opportunity for the Dutchman to open his account for the campaign. | Michael Regan/Getty Images Photo: Michael Regan/Getty Images
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11. LW: Jack Harrison
Harrison's 11 Premier League appearances have totalled just 269 minutes and one start, with the winger not really fitting into Farke's 3-5-2 system. A start at Pride Park would give Noah Okafor and Brenden Aaronson some much-needed rest. | Getty Images
12. ST: Lukas Nmecha
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has taken the spotlight in recent weeks but Nmecha has proved a really useful signing, with four Premier League goals not to be sniffed at. Perhaps Harry Gray gets a spot on the bench and potential substitute's appearance. | Getty Images