Leeds United fell a little closer to the Premier League relegation zone following Sunday’s 3-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest, with two weeks to reflect another disappointing away-day. Daniel Farke’s side are now just two places and one point above West Ham in 18th and return from the November international break with a home game against Aston Villa.
A number of first-teamers are away on international duty but the two-week break will allow Farke to work with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor, while Willy Gnonto will also have another fortnight to build fitness having not played since September. And the break could give the German a chance to nail down his strongest XI ahead of Villa.
There are some key decisions to make at centre-back and in central midfield, while calls are growing for a change out wide as Leeds’ issues further forward continue. Below, the YEP has attempted to draw up the strongest starting line-up and bench that could be on show at Elland Road next weekend.
1. GK: Lucas Perri
There have been issues in recent weeks but Leeds need continuity between the posts, so Perri keeps his place. | Getty Images
2. CB: Joe Rodon
An ever-present at centre-back so far and probably Leeds' best defender this season. Set-piece threat has been important too. | Getty Images
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3. CB: Jaka Bijol
Seems most naturally suited to the central role in a back three, heading away crosses and making big blocks, and that's where he sits in this team. The formation switch improved Leeds massively at Man City. | Getty Images
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4. CB: Pascal Struijk
Managed Erling Haaland well on Saturday and looked back to a good level since returning to the starting line-up. Can be the focus of Leeds' build-up from deep, with a back three getting the best out of each centre-back. | Getty Images
5. RWB: Jayden Bogle
Another strong individual performance at City, showing he is more than capable of keeping top-level wingers from running riot. Attacking link-up play has been excellent too and a wing-back role allows more forward freedom. | Getty Images
6. CM: Ethan Ampadu
Will be tasked with sitting in front of the back three and mopping up as much as possible. Has a huge influence on others as club captain and still a massively important player for Farke. | Getty Images