Joel Piroe axed in two changes: Leeds United predicted XI v Middlesbrough
Daniel Farke could make two changes to his starting XI as Leeds United prepare to face Middlesbrough in a Championship clash on Monday (22 April).
The Whites will be keen to rectify their shock 1-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road last time out, hoping to take a crucial step towards automatic promotion to the Premier League.
While Farke has been known to be a creature of habit, with changes mainly made due to injuries, Leeds must change something to bounce back from a run of three consecutive matches without a win.
There is no reason why Illan Meslier would be replaced in the final few games of the Championship season, while Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu could continue in their formidable partnership.
Connor Roberts, however, was hooked after 67 minutes against Blackburn, having been tired out by the ever-present Sammie Szmodics, which could see Archie Gray return to his normal right-back spot.
With few options on the opposite flank, Junior Firpo could start his 17th league game of the season, with the defence being protected by the midfield duo of Ilia Gruev and Glen Kamara.
Mateo Joseph a surprise inclusion for Leeds United v Middlesbrough?
The latter was sacrificed during the 1-0 loss to the Rovers and was hooked at half-time during the 2-1 defeat at Coventry City, which should leave him feeling fresh on Monday.
The presence of Gruev could be crucial for the attacking trio in front. Crysencio Summerville, Georginio Rutter and Dan James could all keep their places, while Mateo Joseph might be a surprise inclusion.
The 20-year-old has yet to start a Championship match but Patrick Bamford and Joel Piroe’s recent form could leave Farke with no other option at the striker position.
Piroe was handed his first start since the 3-2 FA Cup defeat to Chelsea in February but was unable to stamp any meaningful mark on the match, even despite 12 league goals to his name this season.
Graham Smyth predicted, via the Inside Elland Road podcast [18 April], that Joseph could finally be given a shot in the starting XI, and could very much be right.
In other Leeds United news, Mark Goldbridge reacted as Archie Gray was linked to Man United.
