Leeds United Predicted Lineup for Relegation Clash vs Burnley

Leeds United return from the international break with an away trip to fellow promoted side Burnley. This looks like a huge opportunity for Daniel Farke’s side to pick up their third win of the season. The Whites currently sit in 15th place, and could increase the gap between themselves and the relegation zone to seven points with a win at Turf Moor.

Leeds United Predicted Lineup for Key Relegation Clash vs Burnley

How Leeds Have Lined Up Recently

Leeds have named an unchanged lineup in each of their last four games. However, injury problems could force Farke to make changes against the Clarets. Karl Darlow has been very impressive in goal whilst first-choice stopper Lucas Perri has been injured, so the Brazilian’s return leaves the Whites boss with a key selection dilemma ahead of the Burnley game.

In the centre of defence, Pascal Struijk and Joe Rodon have played every game, with new boy Jaka Bijol yet to make his Premier League bow. This despite clamour from some corners of the Leeds fanbase. At full-back, Jayden Bogle and Gabriel Gudmundsson have both played vital roles in the club’s promising start to the season. Especially Bogle with his ability to overlap and drive into the box.

In midfield, Farke seems to have settled on the tough-tackling, imposing trio of Sean Longstaff, Ethan Ampadu, and Anton Stach. Longstaff picked up the club’s Player of the Month award for September. Out wide, top scorer Noah Okafor has been joined by Brenden Aaronson, whose work rate and tenacity have earned him plaudits in recent weeks.

Up front, Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to lead the line. The 28-year-old’s physicality and aerial threat make him a vital cog in the Leeds machine, allowing his team to get up the pitch and kickstart attacks from knockdowns and flick-ons. However, with just one goal from his first five appearances, the club will be hoping he can push on and start scoring more regularly.

Leeds Recent Form and Tactics

The newly-promoted outfit have now scored six goals in their last three games, putting to bed any early fears that they would be unable to find the back of the net in the top flight. However, Farke’s side have struggled to capitalise on the goals they have scored. They conceded a late equaliser against Bournemouth on 27 September and failed to beat Tottenham last time out, despite having considerably more possession and shots on goal than their opponents.

Although it is highly encouraging that Leeds have been impressive in every game other than the 5-0 thrashing at Arsenal, they will need to start picking up the points they deserve if they hope to buck the trend and stay up in the Premier League.

Leeds Absences to Consider

As previously mentioned, goalkeeper Perri is back in contention. He has trained with his teammates for the last two weeks, although it remains to be seen whether he will replace the impressive Darlow.

Winger Willy Gnonto remains absent, despite recovering from his calf issue, as the Italian was set back by minor hernia surgery over the international break.

There is, however, positive news for fellow wide man Daniel James, who is reportedly ‘ahead of schedule’ in recovering from an ankle injury. However, the Burnley game may come too soon for the Welshman to feature.

Okafor is also a doubt for the trip to Turf Moor. The Swiss international is struggling with an adductor problem, so it may be touch and go to see if he is fit to start.