Predicted Leeds United line-up to face Blackburn Rovers in the Premier League
After getting a herculean win over Aston Villa in the last minute, league leaders Leeds United would be eager to keep their fantastic run going when they face Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road on Boxing Day. Marcelo Bielsa’s men were two goals down at half-time on Sunday but managed to get a win and reclaim the summit of the Championship.
They now face a Blackburn team who haven’t been able to win games on a consistent basis. As a result, they are currently 14th in the table. Hence, on paper, this looks like a home win but nothing can be taken for granted in football.
Team News
Barry Douglas felt something before the game against Villa but he should be fine for this game. Patrick Bamford’s new injury isn’t that serious. Izzy Brown is still out. Stuart Dallas and Liam Cooper will come back by January and February respectively. Gaetano Berardi will be back by the end of February.
Probable Leeds United XI
Formation: 4-1-4-1
Manager: Marcelo Bielsa
Bailey Peacock-Farell (GK)
The season hasn’t gone very smoothly for the keeper but he has done enough to keep his place.
Luke Ayling (RB)
He is back from injury and played the last game. Expect him to do so on Wednesday too.
Pontus Jansson (CB)
His towering header equalised the proceedings against Villa. His presence is a necessity for the Peacocks with Cooper still absent.
Kalvin Phillips (CB)
Bielsa has preferred to play Phillips at centre-back rather than testing Aapo Halme. Expect the former to start there again.
Barry Douglas (LB)
He felt something during the pre-match training against Villa. However, he is expected to be fine for this game.
Adam Forshaw (CDM)
His presence in defensive midfield is key to the team, especially because Phillips is playing in central defence.
Mateusz Klich (LCM)
The hard-working Klich has been good for the Peacocks this season. He starts almost every league game.
Pablo Hernandez (RCM)
Given the lack of attacking midfielders at disposal, we may see Hernandez playing the supporting attacking-midfield role, just like he did against Villa.
Ezgjan Alioski (RW)
The Macedonian was switched to the right wing against Villa and may start there come Wednesday.
Jack Clarke (LW)
He scored a fantastic goal after coming on Sunday and played well. The youngster deserves a chance to start now.
Read More: Why Leeds United should complete an ambitious move for this gifted Man City prodigy in January
Kemar Roofe (ST)
He scored the last-minute winner to break Villa hearts. The striker has been phenomenal up front for the Peacocks.
