Leeds United kicked off their Premier League campaign with a huge win over Everton. Many expected the Whites to be underdogs but they barely played like it.
The Whites took the game to the Toffees, and should have won by a larger scoreline. But the finishing was poor, and in the end, Leeds needed a late penalty to seal all three points. After the game, many focused on the controversial decision instead of how well the Whites played.
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Leeds dominated David Moyes’ men with Ao Tanaka and Anton Stach playing starring roles in the middle of the park. Daniel Farke’s men were aggressive, physical and barely gave Everton time on the ball. The German expects his side to maintain their style of play, when they visit the Emirates to face Arsenal on Saturday.
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leeds United defenders?
Jaka Bijol returns from suspension
Credit: Imago
After sitting out the opener against Everton, new signing Jaka Bijol will now be available for selection against the Gunners. He served a one game suspension after picking up two yellow cards in his last game with Udinese in Italy.
Many expect the Slovenian to slot into the defence now that he is available. But the question is where does he fit in and who does he replace? Daniel Farke may have a trick up his sleeve when it comes to that.
Leeds United could play in a back three against Arsenal
With Bijol in the team, Leeds could easily switch to a back three at the Emirates. With how well the midfield played against Everton, it is likely that one of the attackers is dropped, to allow a defender to be added to the backline.
Playing three central defenders against Arsenal may look defensive, but in the Premier League, you make changes when you need to get results. A back three of Bijol, Struijk and Rodon is a perfect blend of ball-playing and defensive ability.
Here is what the lineup could look like against Mikel Arteta’s side on Saturday.
Perri; Rodon, Bijol, Struijk; Bogle, Tanaka, Gruev, Stach, Gudmundsson; Piroe, James
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