The Whites aim to pull clear of the relegation dogfight during the second half of this season, beginning with a positive result at the City Ground this Sunday when Jesse Marsch’s men take on Nottingham Forest. Premier League actions resumes following Leeds’ FA Cup Fourth Round triumph last weekend, which striker Patrick Bamford dubbed a ‘welcome distraction’ following his double-assist display at Accrington Stanley.
Leeds’ club-record signing Georginio Rutter made his Whites debut at the Wham Stadium, while fellow new addition Max Wober also featured, having joined from FC Red Bull Salzburg at the beginning of the window. Weston McKennie made it three senior arrivals on the penultimate day of the January transfer period, adding much-needed depth to the midfield after Mateusz Klich’s departure.
Should Leeds exercise the USMNT man’s purchase option as they are expected, he will surpass £28 million Georginio Rutter in becoming the club’s record buy, at the £30 million mark.
Here is the YEP’s strongest Leeds United starting XI and substitutes bench when all players are fit and available.
13. Sub: Joel Robles
Necessary goalkeeping experience from the bench. Looked good in the Carabao Cup against Wolves (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) Photo: Michael Steele
14. Sub: Rasmus Kristensen
Current understudy to Luke Ayling, but could easily find himself back in the starting XI this weekend if the more experienced full-back is required to deputise in the middle (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Photo: Jan Kruger
15. Sub: Liam Cooper
It feels as though club captain Liam Cooper is nearing the stage where he cannot contribute in consecutive weeks whereas the younger and more supple duo of Robin Koch and Max Wober appear a good fit. That said, the 31-year-old's leadership qualities must not be understated. Last season, the defence looked a whole lot shakier without him in it. (Photo by Harriet Lander/Getty Images) Photo: Harriet Lander
16. Sub: Brenden Aaronson
Aaronson began the season as a starter but due to waning form and a formational tweak, he finds himself on the bench in this selection (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images) Photo: Gareth Copley
17. Sub: Sam Greenwood
Midfielder Greenwood adds depth in the middle of the park (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Photo: Jan Kruger
18. Sub: Jack Harrison
Harrison was the subject of late transfer interest from Leicester City as the January window closed but he remains a Leeds player and a valuable asset (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) Photo: Stu Forster