Leeds predicted lineup vs Aston Villa - Premier League
Leeds return to Premier League action following the winter break with a Wednesday night trip to Villa Park.
Marcelo Bielsa's side slipped to a disappointing defeat to strugglers Newcastle United last time out and the manager will be conscious of being dragged into a relegation battle as the Magpies, Norwich and Everton begin to show the shoots of recovery beneath them.
This is the first time Leeds have faced Villa this season after December's clash was postponed following a Covid-19 outbreak among the Whites' squad.
Here's how Bielsa could set up his side...
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Illan Meslier (GK) - Needs to bounce back after conceding a poor goal to hand Newcastle victory last time out.
Luke Ayling (RB) - Versatile and usually very solid, although was given a tough time of it by Allan Saint-Maximin before the break.
Diego Llorente (CB) - His cynical foul led directly to Newcastle's winner. Can't afford similar costly mistakes here against superior opposition.
Pascal Struijk (CB) - Struijk has been among Leeds' most impressive performers since returning from a hip injury. He'll need to be switched on here against Villa's dangerous front three.
Stuart Dallas (LB) - Somewhat shackled at left-back, the utility man will need to get up and down his flank to impact the match.
2. Midfielders
Robin Koch (DM) - Started every match since recovering from a long-term injury and then illness. A centre-back by trade, the Germany international will continue further forward here.
Mateusz Klich (CM) - Not necessarily the most thrilling player to watch but he is a functioning cog in the Bielsa machine.
Adam Forshaw (CM) - Back from a hamstring injury and straight back into the team. When fit, Adam Forshaw has been a standout performer.
3. Forwards
Raphinha (RW) - Picked up a knock on international duty with Brazil but will hope to be fit enough to start here. The Seleçao's last match was a week ago.
Rodrigo (ST) - Dan James has struggled playing as a centre-forward as he covers for the injured Patrick Bamford. Maybe time to take him out of the firing line.
Jack Harrison (LW) - All of Jack Harrison's four Premier League goals this season came in January. Leeds will need that form to continue this month.
