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Leeds predicted XI vs Liverpool: Junior and Shackleton start; Cooper and James on bench

Leeds United return to Premier League action on Sunday as they host Liverpool at Elland Road with Marcelo Bielsa’s side still looking for their first win of the campaign in the top-flight.

The Whites were not able to find their best form before the break. But there were some promising signs. They battled back from going behind in all three games, taking two points in the process.

And they may perhaps be able to welcome players back ahead of the game with the Reds.

Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images,
Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images,

Unfortunately, the big news surrounds Raphinha. As it stands, it appears that the Brazilian is not going to be able to play. But it would be a huge boost for Leeds if that situation changed.

There are contenders to replace Raphinha if he is unavailable. Dan James was signed on deadline day. Plenty of fans want Crysencio Summerville handed a debut.

But our predicted lineup includes both Stuart Dallas and Jamie Shackleton.

Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images

Admittedly, Dallas is not necessarily a guaranteed starter. He pulled out of Northern Ireland’s squad due to personal reasons. So it remains to be seen if he plays on Sunday.

Shackleton meanwhile, was outstanding after coming on against Burnley before the break. His energy down the right made a real difference.

So the pair could interchange between central midfield and that right wing role. But picking the pair could also leave the door open for Leeds to easily switch to a back three.

Leeds vs Liverpool: Shackleton to replace Raphinha?

Diego Llorente and Pascal Struijk get a tentative nod at centre-back. The two were superb together last season. But it would be a brave call to leave Liam Cooper out with Bielsa clearly a huge fan.

If Junior Firpo is ready, he may come straight back in at left-back. But it may be that Mateusz Klich is the player to return, with Dallas staying at left-back.

But with that in mind, here is our predicted lineup in full…