Daniel Farke must make a significant decision on Patrick Bamford’s starting lineup for the Championship playoff final between Leeds and Southampton.
The Whites defeated Norwich 4-0 at Elland Road to reach the Wembley final, while Southampton defeated West Brom 3-1 at St Mary’s to secure a Premier League position.
The two teams played on the final day of the regular season, with Russell Martin’s club winning 2-1, but Farke will have a different approach to this game given the stakes.
Leeds United are back to their defensive best.
The 4-0 victory over Norwich in the second leg made it back-to-back clean sheets, and Illan Meslier was a significant part of it with a stunning save at 1-0, and he will remain in the lineup.
Farke experimented near the conclusion of the regular season, but returned to his favorite back four of Archie Gray and Junior Firpo at full-back, and Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rodon in the centre.
That resulted in a strong defensive performance, and while Sam Byram and Connor Roberts are fit, they are unlikely to start, particularly since Roberts will not be joining the club permanently once his loan agreement expires.
In midfield, Glen Kamara and Ilia Gruev will once again link up in the heart of the pitch to dominate the game and prevent Southampton from controlling possession.
Crysencio Summerville, Georginio Rutter, and Wilfried Gnonto all scored or assisted during the game, which featured fast-paced attacks and high-quality play.
However, Patrick Bamford is hoping to be fit again, which raises questions regarding Joel Piroe’s selection. The Dutch striker has scored in two of his past three outings, including against the Saints, and with Bamford back from injury, he should be used as a substitute if necessary.
