Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has chosen his starting lineup for the Carabao Cup first round clash against Middlesbrough at Elland Road.
The Whites prepare for an intriguing cup encounter with Michael Carrick’s Boro in West Yorkshire, with one of the big fish at this level of the competition knocked out at the first hurdle.
Farke was anticipated to make several changes following the weekend’s rollercoaster 3-3 draw with Portsmouth, and the lineup was announced by the club’s official X account [14 August].
Farke makes eight changes for Leeds United.
when expected, Farke has made changes and rotated his team when Carrick’s men visit Elland Road.
Captain Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon, and Junior Firpo are the only three players to keep their spots as the rest of a small squad makes their debuts in 2024-25.
Karl Darlow replaces Illan Meslier in goal, with Max Wober and Saturday’s striker Brenden Aaronson joining the squad. The offensive midfielder salvaged a point but then squandered a golden opportunity to take all three points.
Joel Piroe, whose rivalry with Mateo Joseph has been discussed, will face Joe Gelhardt, with Patrick Bamford leading the assault.
Joe Rothwell makes his first start for the club after appearing as a substitute against Pompey on Saturday, while Sam Byram returns to the defence.
If the task becomes difficult, a strong bench can be relied upon, with several of Farke’s weekend starts in the dugout.