Jesse Marsch will sit down in front of the media on Friday afternoon as the build-up begins to Leeds United’s home clash with Arsenal. The Whites will host Mikel Arteta’s Londoners on Sunday afternoon and the head coach will take questions from television, radio, print and online journalists at Thorp Arch ahead of the game.
Here is a run-down of some of the main topics on the agenda for the American to address at the training ground today.
Injury news
Marsch usually likes to get the injury discussion out of the way with by delivering a team news update before a question is asked. He’s likely to speak about the progress of Stuart Dallas and Adam Forshaw, who has had an operation this month and is expected to miss the new few weeks of action.
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However, the head coach will also discuss Junior Firpo’s issue, which ruled him out of Sunday’s defeat at Crystal Palace. There were no other injury concerns to speak of from the clash at Selhurst Park, but fans will be keen to hear whether the squad has come through the week unscathed.
Harvey Sutcliffe appeared to pick up a knee injury while in action for the Under-21s on Monday night, Marsch may have an update on him, too.
Attacking changes
While last week was all about how Leeds deal without Luis Sinisterra, this week’s main selection question comes from the Colombian’s availability. Sinisterra is expected to feature from the start against the Gunners and he’ll be raring to go, no doubt, after serving his one match suspension, who he comes into the side for, though, remains to be seen.
Patrick Bamford was the man to step into the fold in south London and if he were to keep his spot up front, it would leave one of Rodrigo, Jack Harrison and Brenden Aaronson being dropped to the bench. It’s a tough decision, but it’s a headache Marsch will relish as it points to the depth at his disposal.
Three point struggles
Leeds’ last win against Chelsea feels like a long time ago now and Marsch can expect to be asked questions about the recent run of form that has seen the club go five games without a win. There have been positives to take out of those games, but after picking up just two points, it will also be something of a concern.
Snapping that run sharpish will be Marsch’s main goal and while table toppers Arsenal represent the Whites’ biggest challenge so far, he’ll be positive that inroads can be made on Sunday.
Elland Road factor
Although Leeds have gone winless since August, they are one of just seven Premier League clubs able to boast an unbeaten home record. The Whites have picked up eight of their nine points at Elland Road and they intend to add to that this weekend with another positive result.
Leeds also have the best defensive record in the division on home soil, conceding just twice, and highlighting just how difficult a place Elland Road has been for opposing teams. With the help of their intimidating and raucous support, Marsch will feel they can pose Arsenal problems this weekend with their intensity and energy.
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