Leeds United are gearing up to face another top-10 challenge in the Championship as they travel to Bristol City for their next match. The Whites have already encountered six of the league’s top teams this season, and the unbeaten Robins will be the seventh and final contender until the end of December.
Daniel Farke’s side aims to secure their third consecutive win at Ashton Gate, which could temporarily propel them to the top of the Championship ahead of the weekend’s matches. Former Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford predicts a victory for the Whites, but they will need to perform at their peak, especially since Bristol City remains unbeaten at home this season. Here are five key factors to keep an eye on ahead of the match.
Josuha Guilavogui’s FitnessLeeds United wrapped up their search for a free agent by signing Josuha Guilavogui on a short-term deal. The experienced midfielder had been without a club since his release from Mainz in the summer and last completed a full 90 minutes back in March. While manager Daniel Farke confirmed that Guilavogui is eligible to play for Leeds, it remains uncertain whether he will be fit enough to take part in the match against Bristol City.
Junior Firpo Replacement DecisionDaniel Farke has maintained the same back four and goalkeeper throughout all 11 Championship matches this season, but he’ll have to make a change at Ashton Gate due to Junior Firpo’s suspension after receiving his fifth booking of the season. This leaves either Sam Byram or Isaac Schmidt to step in. While Schmidt’s attacking prowess makes him a more direct replacement for Firpo, Byram has been utilized off the bench more frequently. It will be intriguing to see which option Farke chooses for this crucial match.
Dan James or Manor Solomon?In addition to Junior Firpo, Leeds will also be missing their starting left winger, Largie Ramazani, due to an injury sustained on Tuesday. In his press conference, Daniel Farke provided an update on Ramazani, noting that his absence will create an opportunity for either Manor Solomon or Dan James to step in. Solomon started in place of Ramazani against Watford, but James made a more impactful contribution in his limited minutes. If Farke opts for James, it could prompt a shift with Wilfried Gnonto moving to the left, putting the decision in Farke’s hands on how he wants to adjust the attacking setup.
Daniel Farke’s Striker DecisionThroughout the season, it seems Daniel Farke has yet to finalize his starting striker. Mateo Joseph started the first eight league matches but has been relegated to the bench in the last three in favor of Joel Piroe. While Piroe struggled to make an impact against Sheffield United and Watford, Joseph’s tendency to miss key chances remains a concern for Farke. However, Joseph offers a more complete attacking package, making it intriguing to see if he’ll earn the starting spot in this match.
Leeds’ Record Against Bristol CityLeeds United boast an impressive record against Bristol City, having faced each other 18 times since 2010, with Leeds winning 15 of those encounters. Remarkably, they have triumphed in their last six meetings, including four consecutive victories at Ashton Gate. Continuing this dominant streak would be a significant boost for Leeds as they aim for a strong result in today’s match.