Daniel Farke’s three tweaks at Leeds United since last season, including tactics | OneFootball

Daniel Farke has kept Leeds United’s shape, yet three on-field shifts stand out. Leeds Live notes the formation is familiar, but the approach has evolved.

A back four remains his preference after summer debate. Friendlies began with wing-backs, with in-game switches to a back four, a pattern seen in the first seven matches.

Tactics are bolder. Joe Rodon’s forays last term drew extra licence in pre-season. With Rodon injured, James Justin has carried that role, often stepping in as a right-back while Jayden Bogle pushes higher.

Bogle has appeared in the number 10 pocket and inside the box. He scored at Brighton & Hove Albion and was among those beaten by Dominic Calvert-Lewin for his header against Newcastle.

There could be greater attacking thrust if Harry Wilson and Noah Okafor are paired as the wide number 10s. Brenden Aaronson and Anton Stach offer more rounded profiles.

Jaka Bijol is currently out of the XI, despite arguably finishing last season as the most consistent defender. Nico Elvedi, signed after Sebastiaan Bornauw pushed to leave, has impressed in the central role Bijol also prefers. Elvedi finds team-mates in the final third, while Bijol is slower but stronger aerially.

Use of a back five hinges on the opponent, so Bijol could return against set-piece driven Arsenal. For now, Elvedi appears the default pick.

After Pascal Struijk’s exit, Farke chose a leadership group, not a single vice-captain. When Ethan Ampadu is unavailable, the armband can pass to Joe Rodon, James Justin, Bijol or Calvert-Lewin.

Source: Leeds Live

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