Leeds United Nottingham Forest
Leeds United play Nottingham Forest in a crucial bottom of the table clash on Friday night in the Premier League. The game has a lot at stake, considering two other teams near the bottom of the table will also be in action.
West Ham and Burnley will also play this weekend, which means the order at the bottom could change quickly. Leeds started the year putting some distance between themselves and the relegation zone, but in recent weeks, other teams have gained ground. Especially Nottingham Forest, who are unbeaten in their last four league games, holding Arsenal to a draw at home.
Most Read on The Leeds Press
When Leeds faced the Gunners at home at Elland Road; they were beaten 4-0 by Mikel Arteta’s men. The result came as a bit of a surprise considering it was the Whites’ first loss at home since December.
Leeds United ace could be dropped for Nottingham Forest clash
This week saw Forest bring in some quality additions before the transfer deadline. Leeds on the other hand, ended their window emptyhanded after pursuing Jorgen Strand Larsen for weeks. Both sides have some injury concerns coming into Friday night’s game – Sean Dyche revealed that Callum Hudson-Odoi and goalkeeper Matz Sels will be late decisions for the game. Leeds will be without Anton Stach, but the Whites could welcome Jaka Bijol back into the lineup.
The Slovenian missed the last game with a knock, and with how the game against Arsenal went, he will be needed back in the team. James Justin went off against Arsenal, and there are doubts he could be fit enough to start on Friday.
READ MORE: Leeds United to make blockbuster summer transfer for Manchester City ace a ‘priority’ – fans will be excited
Jaka Bijol needed now more than ever
James Justin is not a natural center back and before he went off against Arsenal, he struggled quite a bit when the Whites were under pressure. Despite some of his flaws, Jaka Bijol is a solid part of the backline – not afraid to step up and deal with danger, and is great in the air. His return would give the team some defensive security in a crucial game.
This situation proves why the 49ers should have added some defensive depth in the January window; with Bijol out, his replacement was fullback who had to deputize at center back.
READ MORE: ‘Championship level…’ – Gabby Agbonlahor aims sly dig at £62.5k a week Leeds United star