Jesse Marsch will be forced into at least one Leeds United change on Saturday afternoon at Elland Road against Southampton – but he could make as many as three. Kalvin Phillips could be the one to start in midfield.
Leeds come into the match after ending a run of six straight Premier League losses. A last-gasp winner over Norwich City, was then followed by an injury-time winner over Wolves – after going down 2-0 to win 3-2.
The momentum, the positivity, the enthusiasm, the belief has returned at Elland Road – despite the injuries at Elland Road. Patrick Bamford was forced off before the half-four mark at Wolves, and is out for the season.
Illan Meslier has recovered from the knock that saw Kristoffer Klaesson come on – and Raul Jimenez sent off. Raphinha is back after a positive test, Diego Llorente is ready. Marsch says Phillips and Liam Cooper can start.
Marsch could make three Leeds changes to face Southampton…
However, Marsch makes the solid point that he will only start one of those players – given the duo will struggle to get through 90 minutes, meaning two substitutes. He will have a decision to make – and he should choose Phillips.
Meslier is back in goal, and the defence remains unchanged. Luke Ayling at right-back, Stuart Dallas at left-back and despite the return of Cooper – Llorente and Pascal Struijk will start at centre-back. Phillips will return.
Partnering him in midfield is likely to be Mateusz Klich after a couple of very-impressive displays. Rodrigo ahead of him, Jack Harrison over £25m (Mail) Dan James after scoring at Wolves. Raphinha on the right.
With Patrick Bamford out, it might be time for Joe Gelhardt to start his first game under Marsch after recovering from a back spasm. Marsch spoke on Thursday about considering a start for Gelhardt against Wolves.
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