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Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa stated in his press conference, as quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post, that he would be selecting the “the same team and same bench” for Friday’s clash with West Brom as he fielded for Tuesday’s 1-0 defeat to QPR.
However, in doing so, the Argentine coach could be making an error that further damages the Whites’ promotion bid.
On the chalkboard
Leeds have not been at their best in recent weeks and their poor result at Loftus Road had been coming. They must now get back on track quickly if they’re to keep themselves in the thick of the promotion hunt.
Tensions boiled over between Leeds and Bolton at the weekend and our man Thogden was on the scene. Check out the video below…
Bielsa’s side needs a boost and an injection of fresh ideas. But in failing to take this chance to rotate his starting XI he has missed an opportunity to reinvigorate his team at a crucial stage of the campaign.
The changes to make
Bielsa must recognise that his first choice full-backs are struggling. Both Ezgjan Alioski and Luke Ayling have been short of their best recently. Bringing in Barry Douglas and Jamie Shackleton to replace them at left and right-back, respectively, would have been a wise move. Both would provide some freshness and extra attacking intent.
Izzy Brown could also have been given his first start in place of the toiling Tyler Roberts, who also failed to make an impact against Steve McClaren’s side. With Leeds failing to take their chances in front of goal, the inclusion of the forward could help them rediscover their cutting edge.
Choosing to not make these changes could haunt the Yorkshire outfit for the rest of the campaign if they are unable to secure a win against West Brom.