Leeds United will look to get their first pre-season win on the board when they face Sunderland in New Jersey tomorrow night. Daniel Farke’s side lost 3-2 against Wrexham last weekend, with Joel Piroe and Sean Longstaff on target for a much-changed Whites outfit missing several key players.
The available group for tomorrow’s game at the Sports Illustrated Stadium might look a little different, with some World Cup breaks coming to an end and new signings starting to settle. There are a trio of injury concerns, however, with Jaka Bijol, Sebastiaan Bornauw and Dominic Calvert-Lewin all missing out against Wrexham.
There could be a chance to see another fresh face if Tarik Muharemovic is deemed ready to feature, while a first start is on the cards for Harry Wilson. With that in mind, the YEP has attempted to predict how Farke could line his side up against the Black Cats.
1. Predicted Leeds United XI
Let's see how Farke could line-up against Sunderland. | Getty Images
2. GK: Alex Cairns
Depending on where we are with James Trafford's move to Leeds and Lucas Perri's subsequent Torino switch, the 33-year-old could be the only available senior goalkeeper. Of course there is a chance someone like Rory Mahady is handed a chance but Cairns feels like the sensible pick. | Getty Images
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3. CB: James Justin
Got good minutes under his belt against Wrexham and in typical fashion, moved around the pitch to accommodate others. Will likely fill in at centre-back with numbers a little lacking. | AFP via Getty Images
4. CB: Joe Rodon
Not at his best against Wrexham but if you're going to have a bad game, best get it out the way in pre-season. Played 90 minutes like Justin and will probably do so again. Durable.
5. CB: Alfie Cresswell
The 19-year-old could be handed another pre-season start with no need to risk either Sebastiaan Bornauw or Jaka Bijol, both of whom missed Wrexham with minor issues. Tarik Muharemovic could also get an unofficial debut, but perhaps off the bench. | Getty Images
6. RWB: Jayden Bogle
Bogle was a half-time introduction against Wrexham and with no international minutes to manage, should be starting soon enough. Could also drop a little deeper if Farke goes for a back four.