The 2021/22 season could not have had a worse start for Leeds United.
Marcelo Bielsa’s men traveled to Old Trafford to take on bitter rivals Manchester United, in order to avoid another 6-2 hammering as the year before. Only the 5-1 shellac this time.
pic.twitter.com/0zliG1ElfE
– Leeds United (@LUFC) August 14, 2021
But these things can happen to Leeds and their brave brand Bielsa-ball, and you should be afraid of their next opponent’s emotional well-being beyond such a poor result. They are looking for blood.
Back on Elland Road and in front of a packed crowd for the first time in 18 months, the Whites welcome Everton to Yorkshire, with the intention of banishing their Old Trafford demons and collecting their first three points of the season.
But which players should Bielsa choose for this important clash?
Firpo can start against Everton / Tony Marshall / Getty Images
Illan Meslier (GK) – It’s never easy for a goalkeeper to jump back from a hammer, but Meslier proved he was a top goalkeeper last year, and he will be ready to set the record.
Luke Ayling (RB) – It was Ayling’s goal that took Leeds to level with Man Utd, but not much else went well for the hill. He should not face so many problems next time.
Robin Koch (CB) – The German midfielder had a bit of a stink in front of the defense, but he should be reintroduced in the back line for this clash in front of the equally poor Pascal Struijk.
Liam Cooper (CB) – A partnership with Struijk has never really geled, and Cooper looks much more comfortable next to Koch. A much more complementary mating.
Junior Firpo (LB) – The former Barcelona man came off the bench to make his debut against the Red Devils, and he could very well start on the left back against Toffees.
Really missed against Man Utd / Stu Forster / Getty Images
Mateusz Klich (CM) – He did not like the afternoon at Old Trafford, but Klich will be back in his comfort zone on Elland Road and the cool home crowd on Saturday.
Kalvin Phillips (CM) – This man was badly missed during the opening weekend. Leeds midfield was completely overrun by Man Utd, and Bielsa hopes to use talisman Phillips to stop Toffees.
Stuart Dallas (CM) – He started on the left back against the Red Devils, but Dallas can do a job in midfield as well. The versatile star provides a lot of energy and running to the center of the field.
Ready to get among the goals / Alex Morton / Getty Images
Raphinha (RW) – It was a quiet afternoon in Manchester for Raphinha, and Leeds supporters will want to see more from the Brazilian star. When he plays well, the whites tend to win.
Patrick Bamford (ST) – Still to start his goal with this campaign, but it should not take him too long. Bamford will enjoy their chances against this Everton back line.
Jack Harrison (LW) – Harrison is an underrated star in Leeds’ system and is a dangerous weapon when he is in the mood. Everton need to keep an eye on him.
