Daniel Farke could be forced into his biggest Leeds United tactical shift yet vs Bristol City

Leeds United host Nigel Pearson’s Bristol City at Elland Road in the Championship on Saturday afternoon and here are five things to look out for around the match

What happens at left-back?

Daniel Farke could only hope Sam Byram would come through Leeds United’s final training session unscathed ahead of today’s clash with Bristol City. When he faced the media yesterday, there was still a decision to be made on the full-back.

The 30-year-old has been one of the best performers for the Whites in the opening weeks of the campaign, but his chequered injury record is well documented. Byram requires management and a third match in seven days may tip him over into the red, something United cannot afford with so few alternatives in that department.

The manager intimated they may need to get creative if it’s decided Byram is too big a risk. Pascal Struijk or Leo Hjelde seem like the most natural replacements, but the former is settled in central defence and the latter has looked out of his depth.

Leeds United journalists

A back three or an out-of-position option seem the least likely outcomes this afternoon.

Gray to keep Kamara out?

Archie Gray quickly reminded everyone of his quality upon his return to the side on Wednesday night, but could Farke be tempted to go back to Glen Kamara to meet the needs of this game?

Does Anthony’s ankle hold up?

Jaidon Anthony was rated as a 50-50 chance by Farke yesterday. With alternatives like Daniel James and Ian Poveda champing at the bit for minutes, it would not be a huge surprise to see the German revert to those he can rely on for 90 minutes if needed.

Does Bamford turn more heads?

Patrick Bamford had a long wait for his 2023/24 bow, but a cameo at Southampton was followed by a turn from the bench at Elland Road in midweek that impressed. Farke’s vehement defence of his deployment of Joel Piroe and Georginio Rutter makes their exclusion unlikely, so the number nine will have to make the best of it from the bench again.

Does Farke turn back to his captain?

Liam Cooper was the lamb sacrificed for Joe Rodon’s return on Wednesday night and it has to be said the latter and Struijk immediately looked rock solid once again. Farke has previously stressed Cooper’s importance, but how tempted will he be to break up his central partnership?