Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa. (Getty Images)
A 1-0 lead, that’s all it took for Leeds United and now they walk into the second-leg with the advantage. That seemed to boost fans and players alike, as it means that Derby County have everything to do.
Neither side was at their very best in the clash and that does leave many hoping that the second-leg will be more action-packed. Knowing Marcelo Bielsa, it certainly should be since the Argentine rarely holds back the offensive side of the game.
For Frank Lampard and Derby County, this is the chance for the outsiders to prove their mettle. The last club amongst the four in the playoffs to make it all the way, the Rams have a lot to do. But it’s not an impossible task, merely a hard one.
Ezgjan Alioski, Leif Davis, Adam Forshaw and Barry Douglas are out for the season. Kemar Roofe did start and score against Derby but he’s out for the second leg.
But with Patrick Bamford back from suspension, the former Middlesbrough striker should get a chance.
A key component for Marcelo Bielsa’s side since his January move, Casilla should keep his place.
He did well in the first-leg and should keep his place, especially if Ayling continues to play as well as he has.
Many expected Pontus Jansson to play but it Berardi who walked on and played out of his skin.
The club captain has to improve for the Whites, especially if they want any chance of winning the second-leg
Back from injury, the 28-year-old has done well as a left-back and with injuries to other players, he should keep his place.
Arguably one of the club’s best players, the 23-year-old has had a good season and Leeds will need him to play another impressive game.
The Spaniard has been one of the club’s standout players and has produced 24 goals so far, which makes him one of the first names on the team-sheet.
The central midfielder has been an immense presence, playing nearly every game this season, and should continue that trend.
With Forshaw walking off injured, Roberts should find a way onto the team-sheet.
The Manchester City loanee was brilliant against Derby County, providing the assist for Kemar Roofe’s goal.
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Kemar Roofe has been ruled out with a calf injury and the former Middlesbrough striker should return to the line-up.
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