Predicted XI: Aston Villa (A)
Leeds head to Villa Park on Sunday lunchtime looking to extend their winning run to six games for the first time since September 2009.
This is the only fixture yet to be played and many believe it will be United’s toughest against the free scoring Villains.
Marcelo Bielsa’s men come into the game top of the league and six points clear of third place West Brom, meaning they only have to match Norwich’s result at Blackburn to remain top for Christmas.
The team top of the Championship on Christmas day has promoted automatically in each of the previous 10 seasons, giving Whites fans plenty of reasons to be excited.
However, Bielsa will be under no illusions that a trip to Dean Smith’s Villa is going to be straight forward and the Argentine has already likened it to the fixture at the Hawthorns last month, where Leeds were handed a 4-1 beating.
Leeds have been handed a major boost this week as Bielsa announced at his pre-match press conference that defender Luke Ayling is available again since picking up an injury against Nottingham Forest back in October.
Here’s how we expect Leeds to line-up on Sunday…
Bailey Peacock-Farrell
Solid since returning to the XI, conceding just one goal in his last four appearances.
Jamie Shackleton
The 19-year-old has been mightily impressive at full-back since the injury to Stuart Dallas and keeps his place despite Ayling’s return.
Luke Ayling
Although he usually occupies the right-back role, the lack of cover at centre-back and Shackleton’s recent performances mean he could line up in the middle of the back four.
Pontus Jansson
The only recognised centre-back available in the squad and will be crucial when defending set pieces.
Barry Douglas
A consistent performer in and ever changing back-line. Could be in for a difficult day against Villa’s tricky wingers.
Kalvin Phillips
Back in his preferred position as Ayling slots in at centre-half.
Adam Forshaw
Was one of the best players in the second half on Saturday and is beginning to grow into the team after an injury plagued start.
Mateusz Klich
Has been off the boil recently but this is the kind of game, where he could find pockets of space behind the midfield and in front of the defence, maybe we could see his first goal since his chant began.
Gianni Alioski
Divides opinion amongst the fanbase however, Bielsa believes he adds vital qualities to the team.
Pablo Hernandez
Leeds’ most important player in recent weeks and could be crucial in opening up this Villa team.
Kemar Roofe
Keeps his place despite Bamford’s impact from the bench on Saturday. However, pressure will be on him to continue scoring.
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