Daniel Farke faces a potential problem at left-back for Leeds United’s clash with Bristol City today.
Junior Firpo and Jamie Shackleton are both confirmed absentees, leaving Sam Byram as the only real option heading into this afternoon’s game.
However, it is yet to be decided whether Byram is ready to play 90 minutes three times in a week, as Farke continues to be careful of his fitness amid his injury troubles in recent years.
In his pre-match press conference, Farke claimed Leeds have been working on some solutions if worst comes to worst and Byram is unavailable.
One potential option he mooted was a change in formation, away from the 4-2-3-1 he has played in every game so far this season.
Farke should consider James at wing-back if Byram misses out
If a change in formation does happen, Farke would presumably go to a back three of Liam Cooper, Pascal Struijk and Joe Rodon, with two wing-backs either side.
Luke Ayling, of course, would be one of them on the right, meaning options are scarce on the left and that someone would have to play out of position.
One player who should be under consideration in that role is £25 million man Dan James, with his attributes making him an ideal solution for a one-off match.
James has the work rate to get up and down the pitch, while also possessing the pace to defend should he be called into doing so.
Playing at wing-back would also allow him to continue getting forward, but at the same time, eliminating the pressure for him to take on his marker, which is something he struggles with.
In an ideal world, Byram will be fit enough to get through at least an hour, but if not, James as a wing-back doesn’t feel like the worst shout in the world.
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