On Monday, Leeds United takes on Hull City in their second match of the action-packed Easter weekend.
The Tigers, who have lost their previous five Championship games but are still very much in the running to finish in the top six, will be the opponent Daniel Farke’s team faces.
To keep things interesting, Farke would be inclined to make a few changes to his team at Elland Road given the short turnaround after Friday night’s 2-2 draw at Watford.
It is unlikely that Willy Gnonto or Connor Roberts will be able to make a comeback, but if Ilia Gruev’s ankle swelling goes down in the next 48 hours, there may be a chance.
This is our expected starting lineup for yet another crucial promotion run-in game.
Goalkeeper
Illan Meslier clearly maintains his position in goal despite being unable to do anything with either of the goals last night at Vicarage Road.
Defence
Farke is forced to go back to the center-back duo of Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu, who have been playing so well together since the start of the season.
Liam Cooper made his first start since January 1 against Watford, but his performance showed he is not good enough, so he must drop out of the starting lineup.
Sam Byram is replaced by Junior Firpo, who impressed greatly from the bench after missing the opening game owing to a delayed return from international duty. Starting from the right is Archie Gray.
Midfield
Farke appeared cautiously upbeat. Gruev did not totally rule out making a comeback on Monday.
He just needs to get back into the starting lineup in that holding midfield position, Glen Kamara playing alongside him, if he is declared fit to play.
Attack
Given Gnonto’s performance in the previous few months, Farke will find it difficult to live without him for the next three weeks.
Dan James continues on the right despite his lackluster performance in the draw against Watford. This season, he has performed best at home. On the other side, Crysencio Summerville begins after his outstanding performance last night.
After a little procedure, Georginio Rutter was obviously still recovering, but another 48 hours of recuperation should ideally bring him closer to 100%.
Mateo Joseph should definitely start after coming off the substitute to save a point for Leeds, but Patrick Bamford will most likely lead the line once more.
Predicted XI: Meslier; Gray, Rodon, Ampadu, Firpo; Gruev, Kamara; James, Rutter, Summerville, Bamford
