Aston Villa have full-back issues Leeds United may look to exploit on Sunday at Elland Road. Luis Sinisterra and Jack Harrison are likely to be the hosts’ wingers, but there could also be joy for whoever Jesse Marsch chooses at full-back.
In the narrow system we know Marsch likes to use, full-backs have grown in importance if the Whites are to make any gains in wide areas. Makeshift or back-up choices from Steven Gerrard down the sides of the away defence could give Leeds wingers more space, and less pressure on home full-backs.
Right-back Matty Cash, who memorably added insult to injury with an unmarked final goal at Leeds in March, has been missing for more than 25 days after pulling up with a hamstring issue. Cash’s omission from the recent Poland squad confirmed he was not 100 per cent fit and there is a big dilemma for Gerrard on his first-choice option.
