Leeds United host Swansea City at Elland Road tonight in a game the hosts must win to maintain their hopes of finishing the season in first place.
United have struggled for form of late, winning just two of their last five League games, but they will certainly be wanting to better that record this evening.
It is equally important for Swansea’s hopes of making the playoffs as they are just six points away from sixth position, albeit having played a game more than some sides in the top six, they still must win if they are to stand any chance of reaching those heights.
In order for Marcelo Bielsa to get the better of Graham Potter tonight, he should look to take alternative routes with the game time of two of his men…
Bench Patrick Bamford
Bamford has not long returned from injury and after scoring on his return in the loss to Norwich City, he warranted a start in the side.
The 25-year-old got that deserved start against his former club Middlesborough, but United struggled to break Boro down and only just managed to snatch a last minute equaliser.
For the clash against Swansea, he could be more effective coming off the bench rather, to give the Swans’ defenders even more to think about.
It would also allow Bielsa to return to a defined 4-1-4-1 formation from the start which has reaped the best results this season.
Bring in Pablo Hernandez
Hernandez was only brought off the bench against Boro, likely to be so that Bielsa can rest the 33-year-old, but he looks set to return to the starting 11 against his former club.
The Spaniard has been influential in a more central midfield role of late, or alternatively, with Jack Clarke being out for the game, he could feature on the right-wing, where he began the season.
Either way, his presence will be sure to help United create more concrete chances as he has 11 assists so far this campaign, not to mention seven goals too.
In whichever position he starts, he is likely to be a pivotal figure in the outcome of the game.
