Leeds face decision on key squad pair for Cardiff clash
Injury and suspension concerns for Bamford and Firpo
Leeds United face a decision over two key players ahead of their Championship clash with Cardiff City on Sunday. Patrick Bamford and Junior Firpo are both doubts for the game, with the former struggling with a knock and the latter suspended following his red card against Blackburn Rovers last weekend.
Bamford a doubt for Leeds
Bamford has been Leeds' top scorer this season with 13 goals in all competitions, but he missed the midweek defeat to Burnley with a knock. The striker is hopeful of being fit to face Cardiff, but his participation will be determined by a late fitness test.
Firpo suspended for Cardiff clash
Firpo is definitely out of the Cardiff game after being sent off for a second bookable offence against Blackburn. The left-back has been a regular for Leeds this season, making 18 appearances in all competitions.
Leeds have options in attack and defence
Despite the doubts over Bamford and Firpo, Leeds have options in both attack and defence. Rodrigo Moreno can lead the line in Bamford's absence, while Liam Cooper and Robin Koch are both available to play in defence.
Cardiff also have injury concerns
Cardiff also have injury concerns ahead of the game, with Callum Robinson and Leandro Bacuna both doubtful. Robinson has been Cardiff's top scorer this season with 10 goals, while Bacuna has been a regular in midfield.
Leeds looking to bounce back from Burnley defeat
Leeds will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing defeat to Burnley when they face Cardiff. The Whites have won just one of their last five games in all competitions, and they will be keen to get back to winning ways against the Bluebirds.
Cardiff looking to continue good form
Cardiff come into the game in good form, having won their last three games in all competitions. The Bluebirds are seventh in the Championship table, and they will be looking to close the gap on the top six with a win at Elland Road.
Predicted Leeds United lineup vs Cardiff City
- Meslier
- Ayling
- Koch
- Cooper
- Dallas
- Forshaw
- Klich
- Harrison
- Rodrigo
- James
- Gelhardt
Predicted Cardiff City lineup vs Leeds United
- Smithies
- Ng
- Kipre
- Nelson
- O'Dowda
- Wintle
- Rinomhota
- Colwill
- Harris
- Moore
- Glatzel
Key battle: Patrick Bamford vs Curtis Nelson
The key battle in the game could be between Leeds striker Patrick Bamford and Cardiff defender Curtis Nelson. Bamford is the Championship's top scorer this season, while Nelson has been a key part of Cardiff's defence. The battle between the two players could be crucial in deciding the outcome of the game.
Prediction
Leeds will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Burnley when they face Cardiff on Sunday. The Whites have a good record against the Bluebirds, having won four of their last five meetings. Cardiff are in good form, but Leeds will be confident of getting back to winning ways at Elland Road.
Prediction: Leeds United 2-1 Cardiff City
Komentar