Leeds United are gearing up for a crucial clash against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, but they’re doing so with some significant injury headaches.
Daniel Farke has confirmed that both Pascal Struijk and Anton Stach will miss the match, leaving a gaping hole in the squad just as the Whites look to maintain their six-point cushion above the relegation zone.
The absence of Struijk is particularly painful. The Dutch centre-back has been in red-hot form, and his hip flexor injury couldn’t have come at a worse time. Farke lamented the loss, noting Struijk’s importance.
With Struijk out, Leeds lose their only left-footed centre-back, which means different passing angles and a potential reshuffle in the defensive setup. Adding to the woes, midfielder Stach is also sidelined.
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He is still nursing a hip injury. While Stach is expected to return for the match against Aston Villa later this month, his absence against Chelsea means Farke will need to dig deep into his squad to find a solution.
Bijol’s return and defensive reshuffle
The good news for Leeds fans is that Jaka Bijol is fit and ready to step back into action. Having been out since the FA Cup win over Derby County, Bijol’s return couldn’t be timelier.
The Slovenian defender will likely slot into the centre of a back three. Joe Rodon is likely to continue on the right of the back three, and then Farke has to decide who goes on the left in place of Struijk.
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Either Gabi Gudmundsson will be used as a makeshift left-sided centre-back, a role he plays for Sweden. Or, Farke will trust the versatility of £10m summer signing James Justin, and use him in a new role.
This reshuffle at the back is crucial as Leeds face a Chelsea side in fine form under Liam Rosenior, who has guided the Blues to four consecutive Premier League victories. They will need to be at their best.
Leeds United v Manchester United - Premier League
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Farke’s tactical nous will be put to the test as he looks to balance the need for defensive solidity with the ability to counter-attack. With Struijk’s aerial dominance missing, Leeds will rely on Bijol and Rodon.
Midfield conundrum and attacking options
The continued absence of Stach leaves Farke with a few conundrums. Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu are likely to retain their places, with Gruev named Leeds’ man of the match after two assists against Forest.
Farke has two options. Either he keeps Brenden Aaronson in midfield as he did against Forest, or more likely, Aaronson is pushed up top alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Sean Longstaff comes in.
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Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who was described as outstanding by Liam Rosenior, is battling illness but is expected to be okay. A boost for Leeds is that Lukas Nmecha is fit again, coming on against Forest.
Meanwhile, Daniel James’ return to the squad offers Farke another attacking option. The Welsh winger made a brief appearance against Forest and looked sharp, providing a glimpse of what he can offer.
Two possible changes from Nottingham Forest win, then
We at LeedsUnited.News believe Farke will make two changes. The injured Struijk drops out and is replaced by the returning Bijol, while Okafor misses this one, with Sean Longstaff beefing up the midfield.
Farke’s tactical adjustments will be under the spotlight as Leeds aim to pull off an upset. With Chelsea flying high, the pressure is on Leeds to deliver a performance that keeps them clear of the bottom three.
The German manager has shown a willingness to adapt his tactics based on the opponent, and this is no different. Packing the midfield is the way forward, but Farke needs to ensure his side remains a threat.
Leeds’ survival hopes hinge on their ability to navigate these injury setbacks and continue picking up points. With key players missing, it’s an opportunity for others to step up and make their mark.
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