Daniel Farke’s starting lineup for Leeds United’s matchup with Leicester City tonight is essentially predetermined.
The top two teams in the Championship will square off at Elland Road under the lights as Leeds aims to win the title for the ninth time in a row.
After missing the team’s victory over Plymouth Argyle last weekend, Jaidon Anthony will make a comeback to the Whites, while Patrick Bamford may also be able to play again.
Farke only really has one or two significant selection decisions to make ahead of what is likely to be the biggest game of the season, as it is highly doubtful that either of those two will be starting.
That being said, this is our expected starting lineup.
Goalkeeper
Naturally, Illan Meslier maintains his position in goal after putting on one of his greatest performances of the year last weekend.
Defence
Given his background in important games at this level, Connor Roberts could be a good fit at right back, but Farke is probably going to stick with Archie Grey once more.
For the eighth consecutive game, Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu start together in central defence, with Junior Firpo continuing at left-back since Sam Byram is still too injured to play.
Midfield
Owing to choices made elsewhere in the selection process, the midfield once again chooses itself, with Ilia Gruev and Glen Kamara maintaining their excellent relationship.
Attack
Undoubtedly, Farke must make his most important choice at the right wing. With five goals in as many starts, Willy Gnonto has been outstanding lately.
However, given his off-the-ball skills, there may be a case to start Dan James for the first time since his injury recovery.
Given the way Farke has selected his team this season, it seems likely that he will stick with Gnonto, the player who is currently on the rise. Since any call on Bamford will have to come late, the remaining attackers are Joel Piroe, Crysencio Summerville, and Georginio Rutter.
Predicted XI: Meslier; Gray, Rodon, Ampadu, Firpo; Gruev, Kamara; Gnonto, Rutter, Summerville; Piroe
