Predicted Leeds United XI v Portsmouth | OneFootball

Leeds United will be looking to maintain their impressive form when they face Portsmouth in the Championship at Fratton Park on Sunday.

The Whites are still leading the Championship table by three points, but they will be looking to bounce back to winning ways following their disappointing 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion last week.

Leeds have not lost a Championship game since 30 November, and they have won their last three games away from home, including a 3-1 victory over Sheffield United.

Team news

Ahead of the match, Daniel Farke confirmed that Patrick Bamford has returned to training. The senior striker was out for nine weeks, and he won’t be rushed.

Farke has not ruled out the possibility of Ethan Ampadu going under the knife to sort out his knee cartilage issue, but as it stands, the Leeds skipper could join the side after the international break.

Max Wober is also currently out injured, and he is also expected to return after the March international games.

“Rehab for Ampadu and Wober,” said Farke.

“Hopefully, we have them more or less [back] on the other side of the international break. With Max, it’s pretty clear it will work out. With Ethan, there’s still an opportunity he needs surgery.

“But, at the most, he looks like he could join us for the run-in.”

How Leeds could line-up v Portsmouth

The defensive line is set to remain the same, which means the back four of Pascal Struijk, Joe Rodon, Jayden Bogle, and Junior Firpo are all set to the start with Illan Meslier in goal.

In midfield, Ilia Gruev could return to the side in place of Joe Rothwell. The Bulgarian has made 13 starts in the Championship this season, and his performance against Sheffield United has been hailed as “extraordinary” by Andy Hinchcliffe.

Ao Tanaka has been immense for the Whites, and he is a guaranteed starter.

Wilfried Gnonto could start in place of Brenden Aaronson, who struggled last time out. Gnonto has made 20 starts in the Championship and a further 12 appearances have come from the bench. He has scored five goals in the league so far.

Daniel James, Manor Solomon and Joel Piroe will retain their places.