Five Key Storylines to Watch in Tonight’s Leeds United vs Middlesbrough Clash
As Leeds United prepare to take on Middlesbrough tonight, there are several key storylines to watch. Here are five things to look out for:
Revenge on the Agenda
The last time these two teams met, Leeds United put in one of their worst performances of the season. The team was distracted by the impending departure of star player Georginio Rutter, who had just had his release clause activated by Brighton & Hove Albion. The Frenchman’s departure was a significant blow to the team, and it showed in their performance against Middlesbrough.
Tonight, Leeds United have the opportunity to put that disappointing performance behind them and exact revenge on Middlesbrough. The team has been working hard in training to iron out the mistakes that cost them dearly in their last meeting, and they will be determined to make amends.
Injury Concerns for Jayden Bogle
Leeds United right-back Jayden Bogle is a doubt for tonight’s game due to a muscle injury. If he is unable to play, manager Daniel Farke will have to decide whether to start Sam Byram or Isaac Schmidt in his place.
Both Byram and Schmidt have their own injury concerns, so it will be interesting to see who gets the nod. Byram has been struggling with a long-term injury, while Schmidt is still waiting for his first start of the season. Whoever starts will need to be at the top of their game to help Leeds United secure a win.
Max Wober Set for First League Start?
After waiting four months for his chance, Max Wober may finally get his first league start of the season tonight. The Austrian defender has been patiently waiting for his opportunity, and with Junior Firpo out injured, the path is clear for Wober to start.
Wober has been impressing in training, and Farke has been praising his attitude and work rate. If he does start, Wober will need to be solid at the back to help Leeds United keep a clean sheet.
Ethan Ampadu’s Return to Action
Ethan Ampadu made his return to the matchday squad on Saturday after a 10-week injury layoff. Tonight, he may get his first minutes of the season, possibly coming off the bench to replace Joe Rothwell or Ao Tanaka.
Ampadu’s return is a significant boost for Leeds United, who have been struggling with injuries in midfield. The Welsh international is a talented player who can play in a variety of positions, and his return will add depth and quality to the Leeds United squad.
Rotation on the Wings?
Manager Daniel Farke has been rotating his wingers in recent games, and tonight may see Wilfried Gnonto return to the starting lineup after being surprisingly omitted on Saturday. Gnonto’s rotation with Daniel James and Manor Solomon has been a key part of Leeds United’s attack in recent weeks.
Gnonto’s return would add pace and width to the Leeds United attack, and would allow James and Solomon to take a well-deserved rest. Whoever starts on the wings will need to be at the top of their game to help Leeds United secure a win.
Overall, tonight’s game against Middlesbrough is a crucial one for Leeds United. The team will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing performance in their last meeting, and will need to be at the top of their game to secure a win. With several key players returning from injury and a strong squad to choose from, Farke will be confident that his team can get the job done.