The Whites travel to the Emirates in the first game back after the international break and Gracia will be hoping and praying that the likes of Willy Gnonto, Illan Meslier, Max Wober and Weston McKennie return unscathed from their national team duties. Gnonto, so often a bright spark for the Leeds attack this season, Meslier and Wober’s importance to Gracia’s plans is obvious given the roles they have played of late, but McKennie’s health and wellbeing is of particular concern given the injury absences of Tyler Adams and Adam Forshaw for Wolves.
Adams’ hamstring problem was being considered by a specialist according to Gracia prior to the trip to Molineux and if he is unable to return in time to face the Gunners then McKennie will be expected to join forces with Marc Roca again in the middle of the park. Beyond the American lies Under 21s prospects Darko Gyabi and Archie Gray.
But as long as the internationals return without any extra baggage in the form of fresh injury concerns, Gracia will have a strong squad to choose from when he goes to the Emirates and might even face a difficult selection or two when it comes to the substitutes’ bench. The head coach used his replacements well against Wolves and has highlighted the importance of every player and their minutes on the pitch, citing Crysencio Summerville’s impressive and vital Molineux cameo as evidence.
Here’s what looks like his strongest XI and bench, as things stand.
7. Weston McKennie
When Adams is fit, he plays, but in the meantime McKennie is the likely replacement alongside Roca. The pair are Gracia's only available senior and in any way experienced central midfielders. They will need to perform at their very best against the Gunners. Photo: Tony Johnson
8. Marc Roca
The Spaniard has showcased his passing ability and the role he can play in getting Leeds up the pitch but his form hasn't been as consistent as he would like. He's still going to play a big part for Gracia, however, as the ball-player in the midfield two. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
9. Jack Harrison
Two goals and two assists in four games have helped Leeds take seven points from 12. He will surely retain his place for Arsenal, after hitting the net again at Molineux to make it two in two. Photo: Tony Johnson
10. Willy Gnonto
The Italian international was on the bench for a couple of games but started again at Wolves and set up Harrison's goal. His match-changing ability has made him one of the club's most important attackers and he should start again. Photo: Tony Johnson
11. Rodrigo
Fit enough for only half an hour in each of the last two games, a two-week break from matches might just give him a chance to be in line to start in the 10/second striker role for a half or 60 minutes. His goal threat this season is as impressive as it has been vital. Photo: Tony Johnson
12. Patrick Bamford
The centre forward's importance cannot be understated. He holds the ball up, brings others into play and pops up in good areas to get on the end of chances. When fully fit you expect him to start. Photo: Tony Johnson