As expected Marcelo Bielsa has rung the changes for the game tonight against Bolton Wanderers. The Argentine coach has handed full debuts to a host of players and has added in some of the exciting young players to the squad. The 20k expected will be intrigued by the team that includes both Pontus Jansson and Patrick Bamford.
Leeds XI
GK – Jamal Blackman – Gets his first start of the season. Very exciting keeper with god hands and very good with his feet. Hopefully he makes a positive start.
RB – Jamie Shackleton – Starts at right-back tonight (I think) or he could be in central midfield and Phillips could be in central defence. Keeps us guessing.
CB – Pontus Jansson – He’s back. Jansson will want to make a big impression tonight and work towards kicking Berardi or Cooper out of the team in the league.
CB – Luke Ayling – A great opportunity for him to play at centre-back and we all know how fit he is. Shouldn’t be a problem.
LB – Tom Pearce – Learning from Barry Douglas and being coached by Marcelo Bielsa, it’s now a great chance for Tom Pearce to kick on and develop. Should enjoy himself tonight in an attacking team.
DM – Kalvin Phillips – keeps his place in such an important role in the team. Will provide the defensive side with Baker and Saiz in front.
CM – Lewis Baker – A chance to show how good he can be tonight. Hasn’t had much time from the bench in the two opening games but has bags of talent.
CAM – Samu Saiz – Very surprised that he keeps his place given the two starts he’s had. A great chance to work on his fitness. Enjoying hid football again.
RW – Jack Harrison – Gets his chance from the start tonight. There is a lot of hype at Manchester City about this player. If Pep Guardiola really rates him we should be in for an exciting season watching him.
LW – Tyler Roberts – Finally, after six months he’ll take to the pitch for Leeds in a competitive fixture. Lots of talent, direct and fast.
ST – Patrick Bamford – After a £7 million move he probably didn’t expect to sit on the bench for most of the two opening games. Kemar Roofe has set the standard, Bamford has his chance tonight.