A nine-day hiatus between matches could be helpful for Leeds United.
The Whites do not play again until next Monday, when they travel to Middlesbrough to keep their automatic promotion aspirations alive.
Leeds, who were nearly faultless from the turn of the year to the March international break, have only picked up five points out of a potential 15 since the season resumed.
Saturday’s home defeat to Blackburn Rovers was undoubtedly the worst of the season, but because to other mistakes, Leeds are still in contention for the top two spots.
Leeds’ extra period of recuperation ahead of the game at the Riverside should hopefully serve them well, allowing them to face the run-in head on.
So, with that in mind, here is our early anticipated XI for the game.
Goal Keeper
Illan Meslier, the goalkeeper, was unable to prevent Sammie Szmodics’ goal and continues to play.
Defence
Connor Roberts made only his second league start for Leeds since coming from Burnley on deadline day, and he should hold his spot at right-back.
He only managed just over an hour versus Rovers after only recently returning from injury, but he hopes to be fit enough to play the whole 90 minutes the next time around. Welsh teammates Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu join him on defense.
Junior Firpo did not have his finest game last time out, but he is expected to preserve his position on the left side of defence.
Midfield
Archie Gray had a rare midfield start at the weekend but struggled to establish himself. He should be replaced by Glen Kamara, who rested on Saturday after lately being ill.
Ilia Gruev, of course, will partner Kamara in front of the back four.
Attack
Leeds United’s offensive has struggled in the last five matches, prompting Daniel Farke to consider a new approach.
Georginio Rutter has struggled in the number 10 position and should return up front, with Joel Piroe sliding to the bench in lieu of Dan James.
James should start on the right, with Crysencio Summerville on the opposite wing and Willy Gnonto at number ten, whom Farke said was ‘outstanding’ on Saturday. He has previously played for Italy.
Predicted lineup: Meslier; Roberts, Rodon, Ampadu, Firpo; Gruev, Kamara; James, Gnonto, Summerville; Rutter.
