Leeds United face a significant challenge in their upcoming Championship match against Sunderland. Despite Leeds being in good form, with seven points from their last three matches and an unbeaten record on the road, Sunderland presents a daunting opponent. Sunderland, currently the division’s early pace setters, have won every home match this season without conceding a goal.
Adding to Leeds’ difficulty is the injury crisis within their squad. Daniel Farke, Leeds’ manager, will be taking a heavily depleted team to the Stadium of Light. While Isaac Schmidt is the only player among five absentees with a chance of returning for the game, Ilia Gruev is also a fresh injury concern following the match against Norwich at Carrow Road. No update was provided on Gruev’s condition, but with the quick turnaround between games, it is unlikely that he will be fit to play.
Gruev’s injury comes at a tough time for Leeds, especially after the news that Ethan Ampadu will be sidelined for 10 weeks due to a knee ligament injury. Ampadu had been a crucial player for Leeds, starting every league game since joining from Chelsea in July 2023. His absence leaves a significant gap, both in midfield and in covering defensive positions.
Midfield is now a particular area of concern for Leeds, according to discussions in a recent podcast. The team has already been stretched by summer departures of key players like Kamara and Archie Gray, and the loss of both Ampadu and Gruev further strains their squad depth. Farke will be forced to rely on new combinations in midfield, with Ao Tanaka stepping into a deeper role than usual, playing just in front of the defense. Joe Rothwell, who has had limited playing time since arriving at Leeds, will now have the chance to prove himself with more freedom to play in an advanced position. However, while these players bring quality in possession, their ability to handle defensive duties remains a concern for the upcoming matches.
This reshuffling in midfield is something Leeds will have to manage carefully in the weeks ahead as they navigate through these injury challenges.
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