Leeds United's Likely Lineup vs West Ham: Gudmundsson Back in FA Cup Clash
Leeds head to London Stadium for a big FA Cup quarter-final against West Ham on Sunday at 4:30pm. It's their first game in two weeks after the international break, and Daniel Farke has some key decisions with injuries and returns to handle. Gudmundsson is set to slot back in after his ban, which could shake things up.
The last match was a dull 0-0 draw with Brentford, where Bogle filled in at right wing-back. Farke loves rotating in cup ties, but with a semi-final spot on the line, expect a strong side. Perri has been solid in goal for the recent rounds.
Goalkeeper and Defense Setup
Lucas Perri looks good to stay in net. He shone in the shootout win over Birmingham and kept clean sheets against Norwich. Darlow got the nod earlier, but Perri's form has him favored.
Defense might stick to a back three. Jaka Bijol has played every cup game so far. Pascal Struijk could take one spot over Bornauw, who got hooked at halftime last time and sat out since. Joe Rodon or James Justin might compete there too.
On the flanks, Jayden Bogle stays at right wing-back after doing well covering for Gudmundsson. Gudmundsson returns on the left after his suspension—fresh off helping Sweden qualify for the World Cup. Options like Gnonto, James, Byram, or Justin could rotate in.
Midfield and Attack Choices
Farke has juggled players across rounds three, four, and five. A dozen were away on international duty, so fitness is key. Central areas might see Justin shift inside if not on the wing.
Up top, expect pace from Gnonto or Dan James if needed on the right. The lineup balances cup rotation with the need to progress. West Ham at home will be tough, but Leeds have momentum from those wins.
Here's a predicted XI in a 3-5-2 setup:
- GK: Lucas Perri
- RCB: Jaka Bijol
- CB: Pascal Struijk
- LCB: James Justin or Joe Rodon
- RWB: Jayden Bogle
- LWB: Gabriel Gudmundsson
- CM: [Midfield options like Gruev, Kamwa, or others based on form]
- CM: [Ampadu or similar]
- RW: Willy Gnonto or Dan James
- ST: [Main strikers like Bamford or Rutter]
- LW/ST: [Supporting forward]
This is pieced from reports—Farke could tweak it.
Why This Matters for Leeds
A semi-final berth would be huge for morale in a packed season. Injuries mean careful management, but Gudmundsson's return adds quality. West Ham's home crowd adds pressure, but Leeds' cup run has been gritty.
Rotation has worked so far: wins over Birmingham and Norwich, plus Derby earlier. The international break gave recovery time, but rust could be a factor.
Key takeaways:
- Gudmundsson returns at left wing-back post-ban and World Cup qualifier boost.
- Perri likely in goal after strong cup performances.
- Back three with Bijol anchoring, Struijk preferred over Bornauw.
- Bogle holds right wing-back; rotation options abound.
- First game post-break against tough West Ham in FA Cup quarters.
Leeds can push for semis if Farke nails the balance. Exciting tie ahead.
— Editorial Team
