Leeds United’s push for Premier League survival picks up again this Saturday as Daniel Farke’s side welcome Bournemouth to Elland Road, having already collected seven points from their first five matches.
Back in the summer, Farke said Leeds would need to average a point per match to stay up. After five games, they’ve done just that, with seven points on the board following a solid win over Wolves last weekend.
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The mood around the club has clearly improved and with two straight home games ahead – starting with Bournemouth – there’s a chance to build even more momentum. Injury concerns are also starting to ease for Farke.
Lucas Perri is expected to be close to a return, while Willy Gnonto and Dan James, who were both doubts for the Wolves match, are expected to be ready when Andoni Iraola’s side visit Yorkshire.
Daniel Farke faces team selection decisions before Bournemouth match
The big question is who starts in goal. Lucas Perri should be available again, but Karl Darlow has been in top form recently, and his performances haven’t gone unnoticed. According to FotMob, he’s been Leeds’ highest-rated player so far this season.
Former Leeds defender Dominic Matteo believes Darlow should keep his spot even if Perri is back to full fitness. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Perri has to wait for his chance again, similar to how Jaka Bijol did earlier this season.
Jayden Bogle picked up an impact injury against Wolves and could be out for a few weeks. That might open the door for James and Gnonto to push for a start ahead of Brenden Aaronson.
Leeds United team news and predicted XI
James Justin is set to make his first start since arriving from Leicester, stepping in for the injured Jayden Bogle. In goal, Karl Darlow should hold onto his spot, even with Lucas Perri nearing a return.
Darlow has been in good form recently, making it tough to justify a change between the posts. Up front, Brenden Aaronson is expected to keep his place despite some calls for rotation. Farke has emphasised Aaronson’s defensive work and may stick with him again, especially against an attacking side like Bournemouth.
Gnonto and James are available but likely to remain on the bench. Andoni Iraola’s team will provide another test for Leeds’ defence, particularly after their 3-1 win over Luton Town last time out.
Predicted XI: Karl Darlow; James Justin, Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, Gabriel Gudmundsson; Ethan Ampadu, Anton Stach, Sean Longstaff; Brenden Aaronson, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Noah Okafor.
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