Saturday 30th September 12:30pm | St Mary's
Leeds make the 420 mile round trip to the South Coast at the weekend to face an out of sorts Southampton team, desperate to stop the rot, and subsequent slide down the table.
Back to back wins at the beginning of the season seem like an eternity ago for Russell Martin and his men following straight defeats against Sunderland, Leicester City, Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough. They now sit 16th in the Championship, two points from the drop zone. Another loss on Saturday could spell the end for the former defender who Daniel Farke will remember from their days at Norwich.
Daniel Farke must decide whether to recall Joe Rodon back to the heart of the defence, after serving a one match suspension following his red card at Hull. Cooper and Cresswell are both biting at the bit, though in all honesty, the Spurs man will probably get the nod. The gaffer has a similar dilemma in midfield with both Gray and Kamara vying for one slot.
Patrick Bamford is nearing a return to action after his latest injury setback. The former Chelsea apprentice, who turned 30 earlier this month, suffered a hamstring strain during Leeds pre-season finale at Hearts, but returned to full training last week. He may travel with the team, but is likely to have little impact.
Dallas too is on the comeback trail. He's back in full training, and looking forward to a return to action, though Southampton may be a little ambitious. Willy Gnonto will be out of action for four weeks. The Italian International sustained ankle ligament damage during the Hull game, and went under the surgeons knife earlier this week.
Junior Firpo has not fully recovered from the knee injury that has kept him sidelined since June. He continues to train alone. Ethan Ampadu is carrying a knock, but should fit to travel down to Southampton on Friday lunchtime.
Under fire Saints boss Russell Martin may recall Ryan Manning and Joe Aribo back to he starting line up, after being dropped to the bench at Portman Road. They also weren't named in the starting line-up at Boro last weekend. Defenders Jack Stephens and Juan Larios continue to be ruled out whilst Summer signing Ross Stewart isn’t far from match fitness.
