Leeds United will host Aston Villa at Elland Road in the Premier League on Thursday in what will be manager Jesse Marsch’s second game in charge.
The American’s first game in charge of the Whites ended in defeat as Leeds were beaten 1-0 by Leicester City at the King Power Stadium last weekend. The result left them 16th in the Premier League table, just two points above the dreaded drop zone.
However, Marsch will want his players to dust themselves down quickly and get ready to end their five-game losing run against Aston Villa in midweek.
Leeds United Team News
Tyler Roberts’ season is all but over after the forward underwent operation on a ruptured hamstring tendon sustained during Leeds’ 1-0 defeat to Leicester City.
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Kalvin Phillips and Liam Cooper are still not fully fit to make their comebacks from long layoffs just yet. A late call is likely to be made on whether or not Diego Llorente will make it to the team or not.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup vs Aston Villa (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Illan Meslier has conceded the most number of goals in the division so far (61). Yet, the young Frenchman is expected to keep his place between the sticks against Aston Villa, as Leeds eye three points.
Defence
When it comes to the Leeds defence, there could be changes in personnel. Luke Ayling could move back to his original position at right-back, which will then see Robin Koch start in central defence alongside Pascal Struijk. Stuart Dallas’ versatility makes him such a crucial player for the Whites and the Irishman could get the nod ahead of Junior Firpo at left-back in the Leeds United lineup.
Predicted Leeds United Lineup vs Aston Villa
The back four of Ayling, Koch, Struijk and Dallas will need to be at their absolute best to keep a strong Villa attack at bay at Elland Road.
Midfield
Adam Forshaw could partner Mateusz Klich in the double-pivot, with Marsch tasking them with winning the ball in midfield and protecting the defence from Aston Villa’s attackers. Forshaw and Klich will need to stop Villa’s probable front three of Ollie Watkins, Danny Ings and Philippe Coutinho from running into channels created by their midfielders.
Attack
Raphinha has been Leeds’ best player this season, and the Brazilian’s flair, creativity and movement will be key in unlocking the Villa backline. He might have to start in the no.10 role to accommodate Daniel James on the right flank. Jack Harrison is a certainty to start the game on the left flank.
Marsh revealed that Patrick Bamford will play against Aston Villa, but not from the start. We could hence see Rodrigo leading the line for the Whites.
