Predicted Leeds United XI to face Middlesbrough as six changes and Max Wober decision made

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Leeds United are back in action just four days after Saturday’s crazy 3-3 draw with Portsmouth, as the Whites take on Luke Ayling’s Middlesbrough in the first round of the Carabao Cup.

Goals from Pascal Struijk, Wilfried Gnonto and Brenden Aaronson was somehow not enough for Leeds to secure all three points. Instead, Portsmouth took the lead twice and were within minutes of winning.

But Aaronson equalised to score only his second Leeds goal since joining the club for £25m back in the summer of 2022. Now, he could be in line to start on Wednesday night when Leeds face Middlesbrough.

In the first round of the Carabao Cup, Ayling could make an emotional return to Elland Road for the first time to face Leeds. It comes after leaving on loan for Boro in January, and since signing permanently.

• READ MORE: Tony Dorigo impressed by the improved Ilia Gruev on Saturday

Daniel Farke could make six Leeds changes and start Wober

Ayling played 90 minutes on Saturday as Boro beat Swansea on the opening day of the season, thanks to Emmanuel Latte Lath’s first-half penalty. Michael Carrick will be hoping his side improve on last season.

Whether Ayling is given a start or rested by Carrick on Wednesday night remains to be seen, but it is likely that Daniel Farke makes a number of changes to the side that couldn’t beat Portsmouth on the weekend.

Here, we predict six changes made by the Leeds manager this week including a start for Max Wober who is likely to receive a few boos, as did Aaronson on Saturday. Wober was an unused sub against Pompey.

Karl Darlow, Sam Byram and more start in predicted Leeds XI

Last season, back-up goalkeeper Darlow started in the Cup against Shrewsbury Town and Salford City and it is likely he gets the nod despite the step up in opposition. Junior Firpo’s injuries could be considered.

Farke lacks cover at full-back with only Sam Byram another option on the flanks, and that may see Jayden Bogle retain his place on the right with Byram on the left. Max Wober should come in for Pascal Struijk.

Struijk lasted 90 minutes on Saturday but is only just back from a long-term injury. So, he is likely to be given a rest while Joe Rodon will start every game, like his Wales teammate and captain Ethan Ampadu.

Joe Rothwell should get a chance to shine from the off, as should Aaronson. Dan James may have to stay on the right, but Joel Piroe should get a go above Mateo Joseph as Patrick Bamford manages his minutes.