Brighton v Leeds Utd Match Thread
Brighton V Leeds United
Saturday 27th November@17:30 | Amex Stadium
Leeds face a torrid trip down to the South Coast to face Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, desperate to claw their way from the drop zone. Their plight is not made any easier after it was confirmed that Patrick Bamford will yet again miss the action. The 28yo has been sidelined for over two months with an ankle ligament injury. Although he has returned to training this week, he gave the medical team a big scare when he went over on his ankle; fortunately, no damage was done. Journalist Beren Cross expects Bamford to play at last a couple of games for the U23's before he regains his rightful place, spearheading the attack for the first XI.
It's better news for leading scorer Raphinha. Having missed the Spurs game through illness, the Brazilian International has returned to training, and should be fit to start against the Seagulls. Firpo too is available if selected. The former Barcelona left back was less than impressive during his 30 minute cameo role last weekend; let's hope he was just brushing the cobwebs off. Rodrigo's chances of starting on Saturday are rated as 50/50. He picked up a minor foot injury prior to the Spurs game.
During a recent interview Bielsa stated that Luke Ayling's comeback is being assessed on a day to day basis. We can therefore rule him out of action. His deputy Jamie Shackleton joins him on the sidelines, although there is footage of the 22yo light training earlier this week. Hopefully starlet Cody Dramah will be fit to play. Long term absentee Robin Koch remains on the treatment table.
Brighton were one of the few teams to do the double over Bielsa's side last season. For whatever reason Leeds simply didn't play well against Graham Potters side. After a strong start to their campaign this term, they have slipped down to 9th in the table, having not won in the league in the last seven attempts.
The hosts we be without midfielder Steven Alzate (having undergone surgery for a troublesome ankle injury) and Danny Welbeck (Hamstring). Enock Mwepu could return for the Seagulls after overcoming a muscle strain. Shot stopper Robert Sanchez returns to action after being sent off against Newcastle.