Javi Gracia says he could partner Rodrigo and Patrick Bamford up front for Leeds

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Javi Gracia has told Monday’s press conference – as per Leeds United’s YouTube channel – he could use Rodrigo up front with Patrick Bamford if he chooses to use two strikers, ahead of Tuesday’s clash against Nottingham Forest.

Following Saturday’s 4-1 loss to Arsenal, Leeds now face two crucial fixtures at home on the trot. This week, they face Forest at Elland Road on Tuesday and then fellow strugglers Crystal Palace on Sunday, again, at Elland Road.

Forest come into the game having been unable to hold onto a point against Wolves at the City Ground on Saturday. Brennan Johnson’s strike was cancelled out by Daniel Podence in the final 10 minutes of the hotly-contested affair.

Asked if he could play with two strikers up top, or Rodrigo sitting behind 29-year-old Bamford – Gracia responded. He says it is a possibility he can use the duo together, stating the Leeds squad he has inherited has many options.

That is, despite Bamford and Rodrigo only starting two Premier League games all season in the same side. Indeed, the duo have only shared the pitch six times in the League in 22-23 – the latter coming at Arsenal on Saturday.

“In my opinion, Patrick is a clear no.9 and the other strikers can play with him. We can do it with Rodrigo as a double no.9, we have different options,” Gracia told his press conference, ahead of Tuesday night’s clash against Forest.

Gracia could use Rodrigo up front with Bamford for Leeds ahead of Forest

It is all well and good looking to go and score more goals and playing two up top. But Leeds and Gracia have given themselves a chance of avoiding the drop by changing Jesse Marsch’s style, looking to control the midfield again.

He has done that with 4-2-3-1 systems, or with the 4-3-3 formation on Saturday. With Weston McKennie only coming on for 30 minutes on Saturday, it is likely the USA star starts on Tuesday night, alongside Marc Roca.

In front, probably Brenden Aaronson or Jack Harrison. While it would be lovely to chuck as many attacking players onto the pitch, this is a game Leeds need to win in the right way. One they certainly cannot lose at Elland Road.