As Leeds United prepare to face Norwich City in the second leg of their Championship playoff semi-final, both teams will be vying for a coveted spot in the final at Wembley.
The first leg at Carrow Road ended in a goalless draw, setting the stage for an intense showdown at Elland Road.
Leeds United Team News and Predicted Lineup
Leeds United's manager, Daniel Farke, faces several selection dilemmas due to injuries.
Key defender Pascal Struijk has been ruled out for the season following groin surgery. Additionally, striker Patrick Bamford is unlikely to feature after suffering a minor trauma to his patellar tendon.
However, Daniel James has recovered from his injuries and is pushing for a start after coming off the bench in the first leg.
Farke may opt to start with a similar midfield trio of Archie Gray, Glen Kamara, and Ilia Gruev. However, there is a possibility that Joel Piroe could be introduced to strengthen the attacking lineup alongside Georginio Rutter and Crysencio Summerville.
Leeds United's predicted XI
Meslier; Byram, Rodon, Ampadu, Firpo; Gray, Gruev, Kamara; Gnonto, Rutter, Summerville
Norwich City Team News and Predicted Lineup
Norwich City, under the guidance of David Wagner, also have injury concerns. Striker Joshua Sargent, who was injured in the first leg, remains a doubt alongside Ashley Barnes, who missed the previous match with a calf issue.
Should both be unavailable, Sydney van Hooijdonk could make his first start since joining Norwich on loan in January.
Liam Gibbs and Onel Hernandez are out with a muscle injury and a broken foot, respectively.
However, Jon Rowe, who started in the first leg, is expected to retain his position in the attack alongside Borja Sainz.
Norwich City's predicted XI
Gunn; Stacey, Duffy, Gibson, Giannoulis; Nunez, McLean, Sara; Rowe, Van Hooijdonk, Sainz
FAQ
When and where is the Leeds United vs Norwich City match taking place? The match is scheduled for Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 8 PM UK time. It will be held at Elland Road, the home ground of Leeds United.
What was the result of the first leg between Leeds United and Norwich City? The first leg, played at Carrow Road, ended in a goalless draw.
What is at stake in this match? The winner of this match will secure a spot in the Championship playoff final at Wembley Stadium, with a chance to gain promotion to the Premier League.
What are the injury concerns for Leeds United? Leeds United will be without defender Pascal Struijk, who has undergone groin surgery. Striker Patrick Bamford is also a major doubt due to a minor trauma to his patellar tendon.
Are there any players returning from injury for Leeds United? Yes, Daniel James has recovered from his injuries and is expected to be available for selection, possibly starting on the right flank.
What are the injury concerns for Norwich City? Norwich City are facing doubts over the fitness of striker Joshua Sargent, who injured his ankle in the first leg. Ashley Barnes is also a doubt due to a calf problem. Additionally, Liam Gibbs and Onel Hernandez are out with a muscle injury and a broken foot, respectively.
What is the recent form of both teams? Leeds United have won only one of their last seven matches, struggling to score in four of those games. Norwich City have won two of their last eight matches and are winless in their last four.
Who are the key players to watch in this match? For Leeds United, watch out for Daniel James and Georginio Rutter. For Norwich City, keep an eye on Jon Rowe and Borja Sainz.
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