Leeds United will hope to further cement their place in the Championship playoff spots when they travel to Southampton for Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off.
The Whites are sixth in the table thanks to their superior goal difference and after four matches without a defeat under Daniel Farke.
Southampton’s form has been as bad as it gets this month, and they seem to be feeling the effects of some key departures in the summer transfer window.
Leeds boss Farke can welcome Joe Rodon back into his squad after he served a one-match ban during the 3-0 win over Watford. His return should mean captain Liam Cooper returns to the bench, with Rodon partnering Pascal Struijk.
Junior Firpo, Stuart Dallas, and Wilfried Gnonto are all injured, but Patrick Bamford may return to the bench after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Southampton pair Juan Larios and Ross Stewart will play no part in Saturday’s game at home, but Martin has no other injury worries to contend with.
After years of issues, Leeds may have finally improved at the back under Farke, having gone four games without scoring.
United have only lost one of their away games in the Championship this season, winning two and scoring seven goals.
These two sides were both fancied for promotion at the start of the season and while there is still time for them to compete, it is Southampton that look like they may struggle to keep up at the minute.
Both clubs lost key personnel in the summer, but the Saints seem to be struggling more than Leeds, and they are missing the creative spark of James Ward-Prowse and Nathan Tella.
Four consecutive defeats will have really dampened morale in the Southampton camp, and after they conceded 12 goals during that time, Leeds will feel they can secure another important win.
Farke’s side outclassed Watford without breaking a sweat on Saturday, and they have already beaten promotion candidates Ipswich Town away from home.
Leeds may have injuries of their own, but they have the greater strength in depth and can secure three points, which could put them in the top four if results go their way
