Leeds United will once again be without Dan James for their Championship match against Burnley this afternoon. James has suffered a recurrence of the hamstring injury he sustained before the win over Hull City and will be sidelined until after the next international break.
This week has been challenging for Daniel Farke as many players were on international duty. Friday might be the first day he has a full squad available at Thorp Arch, which could lead to some rotation in the lineup.
Here is the updated predicted XI following Farke’s press conference on Thursday:
**Goalkeeper**
Illan Meslier, who remained with Leeds during the international break, will start in goal.
**Defence**
Isaac Schmidt is available for the first time since joining Leeds, but Farke indicated he might not be immediately included in the starting XI. Jayden Bogle and Junior Firpo, who have started all four league matches this season, are expected to continue at full-back unless any last-minute fitness issues arise. Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk will complete the defensive lineup as Leeds aim for their fourth consecutive clean sheet in the Championship.
**Midfield**
Farke expressed his admiration for new signing Ao Tanaka on Thursday and will be eager to start him after his debut against Hull City. However, Tanaka’s recent international travel with Japan might see him on the bench again. Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu are likely to continue as the midfield pair. Gruev has had a full week to prepare following Bulgaria’s match on Sunday.
**Attack**
With James out and Brenden Aaronson returning late from USA duty, changes in attack are expected. Wilfried Gnonto, who performed well in a central role for Italy U21s, might take a similar position for Leeds. Largie Ramazani could make his first start, with Manor Solomon and Mateo Joseph completing the forward line after their international commitments.
**Predicted XI:** Meslier; Bogle, Rodon, Struijk, Firpo; Ampadu, Gruev; Ramazani, Gnonto, Solomon; Joseph
