So, it is a new era for Leeds United. Fans had become accustomed to managers coming and going – but for the first time in almost four years, there will be a new face in the dugout come Saturday lunchtime.
Leeds take on Leicester, and it will be interesting to see who Jesse Marsch starts – and the formation he uses. He is synonymous with a 4-2-2-2 system. Here are three fringe players that could benefit from Marsch at Leeds:
Rodrigo – two-man system helps
Especially, with Patrick Bamford injured. Of course, many will ask – is Rodrigo really a fringe player? But under Marcelo Bielsa this season, he has managed to complete 90 minutes on just 10 occasions, out of his 19 games.
Naturally a second striker, he could play off Bamford or whoever else up top. It would give him the freedom he likes to drop deep, or play on the last man. The £58k-a-week (Spotrac) star could become crucial under Marsch.
Gelhardt – Marsch will love intensity
Joe Gelhardt is tenacious. He is intense, he is aggressive and he mixes it all with an abundance of technical ability. That kind of raw talent will be something Marsch will feel he can hone into a real gem at Elland Road.
Gelhardt will be willing to press. He will be willing to put in the graft, and Leeds fans have been calling for Bielsa to use him more often. What better way than to get fans onside, but chucking Gelhardt into the starting line-up.
Shackleton – Up and down the right
It will surprise many that Shackleton is turning 23 in October. Versatile, the Leeds academy product has suffered with injury this season – but given his quality, he has only ever played 78 times for the Whites.
A victim of his own versatility, Shackleton has failed to hold down a single position. But with Luke Ayling’s form up and down, Shackleton’s energy could be just what Leeds need on the right of their defence under Marsch.
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