Leeds United predicted XI at Birmingham with eight changes, youngsters call and striker’s big chance | OneFootball

Leeds United visit Birmingham City in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday at 12 noon, a brief pause from their Premier League survival fight. Farke said league safety takes priority, but they still want to advance, and according to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk the likely XI will be heavily rotated.

The tie caps a demanding week after Friday’s 3-1 home win over Nottingham Forest and Tuesday’s 2-2 draw at Chelsea. Two key men are definitely out, and another crucial league game arrives at Aston Villa next Saturday.

Farke has players who need minutes, while youngsters Sam Chambers and Alfie Cresswell are more likely to be on the bench. He rarely opts for wholesale changes, preferring a measured blend.

In goal, summer signing Lucas Perri could come in for Karl Darlow, a chance to press his claim for the run-in.

At the back, Sebastiaan Bornauw looks among the likelier starters after only bruising from his collision with Darlow at Stamford Bridge. With Jaka Bijol recently back from a hamstring issue, this could be another useful outing.

Ethan Ampadu is a big call, yet with Pascal Struijk out and a back three suiting Leeds of late, he might again be used in defence. James Justin and Sam Byram are alternatives, and reverting to a back four remains possible.

In midfield, Sean Longstaff and Ao Tanaka both need rhythm and appeal as likely starters. The projected XI features eight changes, a full debut and a striker’s big chance. Victory would send Leeds into the last 16 after January’s 3-1 win at Derby County.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk