Predicted Leeds United XI to face PNE… Daniel Farke continues winger rotation as full-back decisions made

Add as preferred source on Google

Daniel Farke has confirmed he will have to make some late decisions on his Leeds United side for the trip to Preston North End.

Leeds face their third match in a week following wins over Derby County and Middlesbrough, which has clearly taken its toll on the squad.

Sam Byram and Max Wober are among those with question marks over their availability heading into the match, though Farke did hint there were others.

That said, Farke did seem confident Jayden Bogle would be back in contention after he missed Tuesday’s win over Boro with some muscle soreness.

Here is our predicted XI for the match.

• READ MORE: Daniel Farke breaks silence on Junior Firpo’s contract situation at Leeds United

Goalkeeper

Illan Meslier should take some confidence from his performance against Boro and starts in goal at a stadium he received his first career red card at nearly 12 months ago.

Defence

As mentioned, Bogle looks set to be available again and due to the doubt surrounding both Byram and Wober, it feels almost certain he will come in.

Joe Rodon received treatment on Tuesday night but Farke gave no mention of him still feeling the effects of that and so starts alongside Pascal Struijk at centre-back.

Isaac Schmidt is an option for a full debut but Farke doesn’t quite seem trusting of him defensively as of yet. As such, it is a 50/50 call between Wober and Byram, with the former getting the nod just because of the balance he provides on the left.

Midfield

Ethan Ampadu made his first appearance after injury on Tuesday, all be it at right-back. He still seems a couple of weeks off being ready to start.

Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell continue to grow stronger by the week, but a strong performance away from home is needed here after their displays at Blackburn Rovers.

• READ MORE: Daniel Farke rates chances of Leeds recalling Sam Greenwood in January ahead of Preston clash

Attack

Due to the four quality options he has, Farke has been rotating his wingers plenty in the last few weeks, and that should continue here.

Dan James was Leeds’ best player against Boro but against a side who will more than likely sit very deep, it may not be the best game for him.

Given Largie Ramazani was an unused sub in midweek, he should come into start, moving Wilfried Gnonto over to the right.

Whether it’s the right decision or not, it feels highly likely Joel Piroe will return to take his place as Leeds’ starting striker.