90min

Leeds predicted lineup vs Aston Villa - Premier League

By Jamie Spencer

Jesse Marsch is set to take charge of his first Leeds home game
Jesse Marsch is set to take charge of his first Leeds home game / James Williamson - AMA/GettyImages
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Leeds manager Jesse Marsch could not end the club's losing streak in his first game in charge in the weekend's Premier League defeat to Leicester.

The American did at least see a side that was more resolute defensively, conceding just the once after leaking an average of four goals per game in Marcelo Bielsa's last five in charge.

Now, Marsch prepares for his first match at Elland Road as Aston Villa visit on Thursday.

This is the XI he could pick for the job...

1. Goalkeeper & defenders

Luke Ayling
Luke Ayling will continue to cover in the centre of defence / James Williamson - AMA/GettyImages

Illan Meslier (GK) - Has often been powerless to stop the goals flying past him this season and last kept a Premier League clean sheet in November.

Stuart Dallas (RB) - Versatility remains such an important trait, especially with the injury problems Leeds have had at the back.

Luke Ayling (CB) - Likely to continue filling in at centre-back with Diego Llorente a doubt and Liam Cooper still not expected to be return in time.

Pascal Struijk (CB) - Has started eight successive Premier League games since returning from injury in January. Other options are thin on the ground.

Junior Firpo (LB) - Back in the team as a regular starter since a brief spell on the sidelines at the start of last month.

2. Midfielders

Pressure is on Rodrigo to be a creative spark
Pressure is on Rodrigo to be a creative spark / Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/GettyImages

Robin Koch (CM) - Has played most of his football this season in midfield despite being a centre-back by trade. Kalvin Phillips still might not play.

Mateusz Klich (CM) - Often gives Leeds good energy in midfield but has rarely played a full 90 minutes this season.

Rodrigo (AM) - Has played all manner of central attacking positions this season. The alternative would be to pack the midfield with Adam Forshaw.

3. Forwards

Daniel James
Daniel James will stay up front but Patrick Bamford is very close to a return / James Williamson - AMA/GettyImages

Raphinha (RW) - His nine goals so far make him the only Leeds player remotely close to double figures this season.

Daniel James (ST) - Will continue to lead the line but Patrick Bamford could make an appearance from the bench after recovering from injury.

Jack Harrison (LW) - Leeds' next best goal threat after Raphinha. Has netted six times in all competitions so far in 2021/22

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