LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 09: Jesse Marsch, Manager of Leeds United, looks on prior to kick off of the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Leeds United at Selhurst Park on October 09, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Leeds United take on Premier League leaders Arsenal on Sunday looking to scupper the Gunners’ early season form while also getting back to positive ways.
A defeat at Crystal Palace saw Leeds’ winless run extended to five despite a lightning-quick start from the Whites, with a goal in either half undoing the hard work laid out in the first stages of the game.
The fixture list does not get easier for Leeds, though, as they face table-topping Arsenal at Elland Road on Sunday.
For large parts, there were individuals who will be more than happy with how they fared against Crystal Palace, despite the scoreline reflecting a disappointing outing.
Having said that, there will be players who could be facing the chop from Jesse Marsch as the Gunners arrive in LS11.
Here, we look at two players that Marsch might consider axing for the game against Arsenal this weekend…
Rodrigo
Leeds are going to need presence in midfield, as well as threat that can get beyond Patrick Bamford.
Rodrigo was very ineffective against Palace while playing in the number 10 role, even if he was a key part of how well Leeds pressed in the early stages.
We cannot afford passengers against the quality of opponent like Arsenal, and if Rodrigo isn’t able pull his weight totally, perhaps a more natural midfielder would make more sense.
Luis Sinisterra’s return to the squad could see him back in the side, allowing Brenden Aaronson the chance to move back infield, despite his dazzling run out wide showing he can make a difference on the right.
Rodrigo hasn’t really looked like threatening since his bright start to the season, and perhaps a role from the bench could be more worthwhile for him, coming on when a game is more stretched.
Leeds United v Arsenal predictions?
Leeds win
Draw
Arsenal win
Liam Cooper
Marsch isn’t the man the make wholesale changes and the performance at Palace doesn’t warrant overthinking.
That said, the left-centre-back spot has been causing Marsch some problems this season, with arguably his best option unable to play there as he’s too busy covering left-back (Pascal Struijk).
Liam Cooper’s return is vital in terms of the morale and mentality of this squad, but he looked off the pace against Palace.
Slack play on the ball saw him give a foul away which led to Palace’s first, and then being unable to stand his ground as Ebere Eze danced through for a winner was worrying.
Struijk might be the only option in terms of taking Cooper out of the firing line, and it might just be unlikely in general with Cooper the club captain.
Form needs to be addressed though.
