Dan James and Sam Byram are expected to return to the Leeds United starting XI in a trio of changes for their upcoming clash against Bristol City at Ashton Gate on 26 October. Junior Firpo is suspended for the Championship fixture, and Daniel Farke may also be without Largie Ramazani, who appeared to sustain an injury during Leeds’ 2-1 win over Watford on 22 October.
Mateo Joseph could also be in line for a return to Daniel Farke’s starting XI, with Joel Piroe struggling to make an impact and being subbed off in the 72nd minute during the win over Watford. Joseph’s inclusion could be part of Farke’s tactical tweaks as Leeds prepare to face Bristol City.
Dan James is expected to make his first start for Leeds United since August, adding much-needed pace to the attack. Meanwhile, Illan Meslier is set to remain between the sticks as he continues his redemption arc following his earlier blunder against Sunderland this season. Jayden Bogle is also likely to retain his spot at right-back, having been a consistent presence in that position throughout the campaign.
Pascal Struijk and Joe Rodon are expected to continue their solid partnership in central defense, aiming to deliver another strong performance and keep Bristol City’s attackers at bay. The duo will be crucial in maintaining Leeds United’s defensive stability as they seek another positive result at Ashton Gate.
With Junior Firpo suspended, Daniel Farke will need to make changes at left-back, where Sam Byram is the likely candidate to step in, offering more defensive stability than Isaac Schmidt. In midfield, the reliable pairing of Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka will likely anchor the team, as new signing Josuha Guilavogui is not yet expected to start but could make a late appearance from the bench. These adjustments will be key as Leeds aim for a strong performance against Bristol City.
Dan James is expected to start on the left wing in place of the injured Largie Ramazani, and he could make a significant impact if selected. While Manor Solomon is another option, he has appeared off-pace in recent weeks. On the right, star man Willy Gnonto will spearhead Leeds’ attacks and will likely play a crucial role in the game’s outcome.
Brenden Aaronson’s redemption arc is also set to continue, with his stellar performance against Watford making it difficult to see Farke dropping him from the number 10 role in the starting XI.
Leading Leeds’ attacking line could be Mateo Joseph, who has been rotated with Joel Piroe throughout the season. After Piroe was substituted in the Watford match, the young Spaniard might be in line for a starting spot, with the senior forward possibly being dropped by Farke for this clash.
In other Leeds news, former player Danny Mills has issued a warning to the Whites’ fans, cautioning them about expectations as the team navigates the Championship campaign.