Leeds United look to continue a good run of form against Southampton on 13th August, 2022. Find out Last Word on Football’s prediction for the Leeds United starting lineup, and what returning players mean for Jesse Marsch’s side.
Leeds United Starting Lineup Prediction
💬 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗴𝗮𝗺𝗲: “Every game is a massive challenge. Southampton won’t be easy, it’s going to be very hot, so we’ll have to manage that.” pic.twitter.com/PlKVwI8Ark
— Leeds United (@LUFC) August 11, 2022
How Leeds United Have Lined-up Recently
The Whites’ lineup against Wolverhampton Wanderers was much the same as their lineup throughout the majority of pre-season. Illan Meslier started in goal with protection from Robin Koch and Diego Llorente at centre-back, themselves flanked by Rasmus Kristensen and out-of-position Pascal Struijk filling in for an injured Junior Firpo at left-back. A double pivot of Tyler Adams and Marc Roca provided stability in defence and opportunities in attack. A front four saw Jack Harrison and Brenden Aaronson occupying the left and right wide positions respectively while Rodrigo lined up just behind a healthy Patrick Bamford.
Leeds United Injuries to Consider
The Elland Road side travel to the south coast to face Southampton without any further injuries and even some returning players. The injured duo of Liam Cooper and Adam Forshaw could make their return, albeit likely from the bench, and new man Luis Sinisterra could make his first competitive appearance for the Whites on Saturday. In his press conference, Jesse Marsch stated: “He’s obviously not 100 per cent fit, but I still think there’s a good possibility that he can help us with limited minutes”. Whilst not a candidate for the first eleven, the new signing could be a bright spark off the bench.
Meanwhile, longer-term injuries such as that of Junior Firpo, Luke Ayling and Stuart Dallas remain out. As the Northern Irish international saw some time in training this week, Firpo was declared a couple of weeks behind Forshaw and Cooper, so the side is looking healthier and healthier.
💬 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀: “We’ve had a lot more guys in training this week. Adam, Liam and Luis have all trained and are eligible for the weekend.” pic.twitter.com/Qmzfbpb2Kt
— Leeds United (@LUFC) August 11, 2022
Predicted Leeds United Starting 11
Whilst the available squad has the potential to grow after injuries, this week will see a very similar side to the last. Illan Meslier continues to impress with every appearance and therefore remains the first-choice goalkeeper for Leeds. With Cooper only just returning from injury it’s likely a little too soon for the Leeds captain to return to the starting lineup, therefore leaving Robin Koch and Diego Llorente as the most likely centre-back pairing. Despite a minor error against Wolves, Rasmus Kristensen starts at right-back opposite Pascal Struijk who continues to deputise at left-back in place of the injured Firpo. Tyler Adams and Marc Roca retain their places as a reward for excellent performances at Elland Road. Patrick Bamford retains his position at centre-forward, with Jack Harrison on the left wing.
However, deciding on the final spots is a complex process. Daniel James is back from suspension and whilst Rodrigo has been impressive, James’ pressing is an incredible attribute that works perfectly under Marsch. James enters the side on the right wing with the season opener’s Man of the Match, Brenden Aaronson, moving to a central attacking role. Luis Sinisterra makes the bench for a potential debut and can expect to be in contention for minutes, alongside Rodrigo, Joe Gelhardt and Mateusz Klich.
Leeds United predicted lineup: Illan Meslier; Rasmus Kristensen, Deigo Llorente, Robin Koch, Pascal Struijk; Marc Roca, Tyler Adams; Jack Harrison, Brenden Aaronson, Daniel James, Patrick Bamford
Current Odds: Southampton vs Leeds United
Southampton are favourites with odds of 11/8 for a home win. Meanwhile, a Leeds victory is the second most likely outcome at 11/5, with the draw narrowly trailing at 13/5.
