Leeds United will look to bounce back to winning ways in the Premier League on Sunday when they host league leaders Arsenal at Elland Road.
The Peacocks were unlucky to come home from Crystal Palace without a point last weekend, having dominated large parts of the game at Selhurst Park. A 2-1 defeat to the Eagles stretched the Jesse Marsch-managed side’s winless run to five games in the division.
However, their form at Elland Road this season has been solid, and Marsch’s men will be expected to provide a stiff test for the Gunners.
Leeds United Team News
Luis Sinisterra is available for selection after serving a one-match ban for his red card against Aston Villa. Junior Firpo is fit too after having a small setback on his return from a knee injury, but Leo Hjelde might return next week from appendix surgery.
Stuart Dallas, Archie Gray and Adam Forshaw remain unavailable for Leeds United.
Predicted Leeds Lineup vs Arsenal (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Illan Meslier has started Leeds’ opening eight games in goal and is expected to start against Arsenal as well, barring any late injury concerns.
Defence
Ahead of Meslier, Marsch is expected to stick with the back four that started in the defeat to Crystal Palace. This means Robin Koch will partner Liam Cooper at the heart of the backline in the Leeds lineup, with Rasmus Kristensen operating at right-back.
The Leeds boss has Junior Firpo back fit again, but Pascal Struijk will retain his place at left-back in the Leeds lineup after a few encouraging displays in that position.
Along with Meslier, Marsch’s defenders must keep their focus intact for the entire 90 minutes to keep an exciting Arsenal side at bay at the weekend.
Midfield
Up ahead in midfield, there is no looking past the double pivot of Tyler Adams and Marc Roca in the Leeds lineup. Adams and Roca have forged a strong understanding in the centre of the pitch, impressing with their energy, pressing, passing ability and ground covering. The duo, however, must produce their best performance till now this season to nullify Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey’s influence on the game.
Rodrigo is likely to play off the main striker in the Leeds lineup, hoping to become the glue between the midfield and attack. His ability to drop deep and link play will be crucial in stretching the Arsenal backline.
Attack
The return of Luis Sinisterra from suspension will be a pleasant sight for Leeds fans. The quick and innovative Colombian is expected to walk straight into the Leeds lineup, replacing Jack Harrison on the left, whereas Brenden Aaronson provides creativity and guile from the right flank.
Patrick Bamford endured a frustrating game at Crystal Palace in what was his first start league since gameweek two, but Marsch is expected to stick with the Englishman up front.
