Leeds Utd v Plymouth Argyle Match Thread - Post match discussion
09 Nov 2023 06:40 pm, by Ellandback1
Saturday 11th November 3:00pm | Elland Road
Plymouth Argyle make the 350 mile pilgrimage to Elland Road on Saturday, hoping to take advantage of a below strength Leeds side, without the services of up to eight first team players. The International break can't come quick enough for the Whites, who have had to deal with a multitude of issues both on and off the pitch. Whilst they may have strength in depth, the visitors are stronger than their league position suggests, especially going forward.
The Pilgrims have netted nine times in their last three games, but haven't been able to protect their leads in recent games against Boro (3-3) and Ipswich Town (3-2 loss). There are twelve points, and sixteen places separating the teams, who last met sixteen years ago, when Robbie Blake, Eddie Lewis, David Healy and Lubomir Michalic helped secure 2-1 victories, both home and away (2006/07 season).
Pascal Struijk will be out of action for the foreseeable future with a double hernia. The Leeds skipper has been playing through the pain barrier in recent weeks, but is about to go under the surgeon's knife. Daniel Farke will recall Liam Cooper back to the fold, retaining Ethan Ampadu in the holding midfield role and Archie Gray ar right back.
Joe Gelhardt doesn't need surgery on his hand, but will miss the visit of Plymouth as he hasn't been able to train properly. Jamie Shackleton has picked up a minor groin strain that should keep him sidelined at least until Leeds visit Rotherham on the 24th.
Djed Spence's road to recovery has been complicated by tonsillitis. According to the gaffer, it may be another three or four weeks until the Spurs wing-back is back in his rhythm. Patrick Bamford missed training earlier in the week due to illness, but makes the bench, whilst Stuart Dallas continuous to strengthen his leg muscles, and regain his fitness, but is currently training alone.
Junior Firpo isn't match fit either. According to the gaffer, he's making good progress, and is close to being involved in games. Charlie Cresswell has missed training earlier in the week due to personal reasons but also makes the bench.
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