Leeds United face off against fellow promoted side Fulham at Craven Cottage on Friday night in the Premier League. The Whites have had a rocky few weeks as they have lost five of their last eight Premier League games.
Marcelo Bielsa’s men got an important draw against Champions League chasing Chelsea at Elland Road, and will look to build some momentum now.
In the reverse fixture between Leeds United and Fulham at Elland Road, the home side ran out 4-3 winners, in what was an exciting clash.
Fulham are expected to test the Whites, as they are back in the relegation zone and will need a win to get out of the bottom three.
Leeds United Early Team News
Patrick Bamford was brought off in the first half against Chelsea after a dead leg, but he may be fit for Friday night’s game.
Robin Koch has handed Leeds a boost as he featured for the under-23s. It’s likely that Bielsa will give the defender some more time to return to full fitness.
🤩 Koch back in action! pic.twitter.com/VfvZ78GDri
— Leeds United (@LUFC) March 15, 2021
Captain Liam Cooper was unwell for the game against the Blues, and he too could return. There’s no word yet on Pablo Hernandez and his injury. Adam Forshaw, a long-term absentee, will not feature.
Let’s take a look at the possible Leeds United starting XI against Fulham:
Predicted Leeds United Lineup vs Fulham
Goalkeeper
Illan Meslier, Leeds’ No. 1, had a strong game against Chelsea and he should keep his place in the Leeds United lineup.
Defence
Captain Liam Cooper could return to the Leeds United team if he is fit and replace Pascal Struijk. Diego Llorente should play alongside Cooper.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup vs Fulham
Luke Ayling should start at right-back, while Stuart Dallas could replace Ezgjan Alioski in the Leeds United lineup at left-back.
Midfield
Kalvin Phillips should start in the base of midfield, while Mateusz Klich could return to the Leeds United starting XI. Klich was dropped for the game against Chelsea, with Dallas playing in midfield in his place.
Tyler Roberts, who had a solid game against Chelsea, could play a little ahead of Klich, if Pablo Hernandez is not fit. Rodrigo is another option for Bielsa in the attacking midfield role.
Attack
If Patrick Bamford is fit, he should start as the centre-forward. Rodrigo should deputise if Bamford is not fit enough to start.
Raphinha, who has been sensational for Leeds, should continue in his role on the right side of attack. Jack Harrison should start on the left side, while Helder Costa is another option for Bielsa on that side of the pitch.
