Wednesday night’s clash against Millwall at Elland Road has suddenly become Leeds United’s biggest game of the season, with Leeds needing to allay any fears of another promotion implosion.
One point from the last two games and a shock defeat to Portsmouth on Sunday has left fans concerned that The Whites may mirror last season’s run-in, in which they managed just 14 points from 10 games.
It saw Ipswich and Leicester run away with automatic promotion while Daniel Farke’s side were forced to compete in the play-offs, eventually losing to Southampton in the play-off final at Wembley last May.
This time around, Leeds are top instead of third but on the same amount of points. They will need more than 14 points over the next 10 games to finish in the top two ahead of Sheffield United and Burnley.
Daniel Farke needs to make big Brenden Aaronson decision
In the last 12 games, Aaronson has managed just one goal involvement – scoring against Cardiff. The USA star has struggled of late and looks to be lacking in confidence, proving ineffective again at Portsmouth.
Indeed, Aaronson lost all seven duels and managed just 20 touches at Fratton Park. Farke has continued to place his faith in Aaronson with the £25m star starting 34 consecutive league games, but it is now time.
Farke needs to take him out of the firing line on Wednesday night and try something new. There are a couple of options – Joel Piroe dropping into the 10 role, or Wilfried Gnonto brought in from out wide.
Three changes in predicted Leeds United XI vs Millwall
The one obvious change that will be made is Joe Rothwell, who is set to come in for Ilia Gruev. The latter often starts away games and Rothwell at Elland Road and that change looks more than likely tomorrow.
Aidy White thinks Gnonto should come in for Solomon, with the latter failing to score or assist in his last four games. A rest is needed for Solomon and Gnonto has impressed off the bench in the last few weeks.
The 10 role is the big question mark, but Farke needs to remove Aaronson and Piroe has been better in the 10 role of late when Aaronson has been subbed. Mateo Joseph would come in to lead the Leeds line.
Predicted Leeds XI to face Millwall: Illan Meslier; Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, Junior Firpo; Ao Tanaka, Joe Rothwell; Dan James, Joel Piroe, Wilfried Gnonto; Mateo Joseph.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
