Friday 30 September 2011

Leeds V Portsmouth preview

Leeds manager Simon Grayson will be considering his defensive options for the home clash.Grayson has no new injury or suspension problems as his side chase a fourth successive home win, but after they conceded a two-goal lead to draw at Brighton last Friday, he could be tempted to tinker with his back four.Centre-half Patrick Kisnorbo was an unused substitute in the 3-3 draw against the Seagulls following his return from suspension, while Andy O'Brien and Alex Bruce offer Grayson further alternatives in central defence.Leading goalscorer Ross McCormack is likely to continue up front alongside Andy Keogh, who notched his first goal in his second spell at the club last week, but Luciano Becchio is pushing for a recall.Skipper Jonny Howson, Adam Clayton, recent signing Danny Pugh and Robert Snodgrass are expected to occupy a four-man midfield as Grayson looks to keep any changes to a minimum.

Strike duo Luke Varney and Dave Kitson will still be missing for Portsmouth.Varney sits out the final game of a three-match ban for his red card at Hull a fortnight ago and Kitson is sidelined with a rib injury.Defender Aaron Mokoena will be checked over after missing Tuesday night's defeat by Peterborough with a back problem.If Mokoena is ruled out again, boss Steve Cotterill is likely to stick with the side narrowly beaten 3-2 at Fratton Park.

Benjani is expected to start in attack once more after scoring his first goal since returning to the club against Posh.

Meanwhile, recent loan signing Bjorn Helge Riise continues in midfield following an encouraging debut.

No comments:

Post a Comment