How Leeds United’s STRONGESR XI for the rest of the season should look with two debates solved that WOULD SECURE the Championship

Leeds United’s Strongest XI: Solving Two Key Debates

Daniel Farke’s Leeds United has navigated significant injuries, yet remains in contention for Championship automatic promotion. With key players nearing return, Farke faces selection dilemmas. Here’s Leeds’ strongest XI when fully fit.

Goalkeeper: Illan Meslier

Despite a high-profile error at Sunderland, Illan Meslier remains Leeds’ undisputed number one. His experience (200 appearances) and consistency solidify his position ahead of Karl Darlow.

Defence: Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, Junior Firpo

Leeds’ stingy defence has been crucial to their success. This back-four offers balance and complementary skills:

• Jayden Bogle (settled since joining from Sheffield United)
• Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk (formed a strong partnership)
• Junior Firpo (driving runs down the left, despite upcoming suspension)

Central Midfield: Ethan Ampadu, Ao Tanaka, Brendan Aaronson

The first major debate:

• Ethan Ampadu (club captain, returning from injury)
• Ao Tanaka (undroppable after impressive performances)
• Brendan Aaronson (creative spark, four goals and an assist)

Attack: Wilfried Gnonto, Mateo Joseph, Largie Ramazani

Leeds boasts options on the flanks:

• Largie Ramazani (finding form before injury, creative spark)
• Wilfried Gnonto (exceptional talent)
• Mateo Joseph (energy, pace, and goal-scoring threat)

Key Takeaways:

• Illan Meslier remains first-choice goalkeeper.
• Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, and Junior Firpo form the strongest defence.
• Ethan Ampadu and Ao Tanaka partner in central midfield.
• Brendan Aaronson provides creative spark.
• Wilfried Gnonto, Mateo Joseph, and Largie Ramazani lead the attack.

This XI offers balance, creativity, and defensive solidity, positioning Leeds United for a strong Championship push.

Related Topics:

Leeds United
Daniel Farke
Illan Meslier
Jayden Bogle
Joe Rodon
Junior Firpo
Ethan Ampadu
Ao Tanaka
Brendan Aaronson
Wilfried Gnonto
Mateo Joseph
Largie Ramazani

Sources:

GRV Media Ltd
Getty Images

Additional Sections:

Injury Impact

Leeds’ depth has been tested:

• Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev (injured)
• Largie Ramazani (ankle injury)

Squad Depth

Leeds’ bench options:

• Dan James (unlucky to miss XI)
• Joel Piroe (excelled as supersub)

Farke’s Challenge

Balancing player returns and maintaining momentum:

• Integrating Ampadu and Ramazani
• Managing Junior Firpo’s suspension