With such an attractive prize laid out by Bristol Rovers tonight, who should be the men charged with making sure Leeds grasp it with both hands? Certain places in Simon Grayson's line up seem to be up for grabs at the moment, infact as many as 8 starting positions are 'open' for debate... perhaps this has been part of the problem for Leeds lately as the whole spine of the team has either been rotated, injured or under-performing.
Starting with the two centre backs, for me Paddy Kisnorbo and Richard Naylor are the only two players who should be considered here but unfortunately various injuries have kept the two apart more often than anybody would like thus far and with the backup being a Slovakian, who's footballing prowess resembles that of an electricity pylon with cramp or Rui "Oh that was my man?!" Marques its not difficult to see why Leeds have leaked a few more goals recently.
Bradley Johnson and Neil Kilkenny were given the nod in central midfield at Orient after their introduction at Brunton Park completely changed the teams performance and the game as a whole. The team has a more attacking threat with 'Brad' and 'Killa' and maybe this should be the pairing of choice in the games against weaker opposition but i'm not sure they have enough 'steel' against strong, battling midfileds, such as Millwall or Norwich. In my opinion, Jonny Howson has been a passenger for months and the odd 'Hollywood Pass' to Beckford doesn't disguse the fact that his passing, tackling and decision making have all been below par. Perhaps some reserve football is in order.
The wide positions is more of a quandary, several excellent players for 2 positions. Snodgrass, Gradel, McSheffrey and I'd even say Aidan White all have more than enough quality to trouble League One full-backs, with the first three adaptable to the main striking roles too. Signs were there on Saturday that McSheffrey is settling into this Leeds team and should be a real asset for the run -in. Snodgrass more than earns his place, though is a little frustrating at times (although the National press love him) but Gradel still appears to be an impact player for now.
Up top, it's a case of who partners Jermaine Beckford. The 24-goal hitman is surely the first name on the teamsheet, when fit. Luciano Becchio has drifted in and out of form this season and just when you think he's got it together again he has a nightmare. And there have been plenty of calls for Mike Grella to get a start after some decent displays in a cameo role from the bench.
Its all to play for and Mr Grayson has got some big decisions to make!
The wide positions is more of a quandary, several excellent players for 2 positions. Snodgrass, Gradel, McSheffrey and I'd even say Aidan White all have more than enough quality to trouble League One full-backs, with the first three adaptable to the main striking roles too. Signs were there on Saturday that McSheffrey is settling into this Leeds team and should be a real asset for the run -in. Snodgrass more than earns his place, though is a little frustrating at times (although the National press love him) but Gradel still appears to be an impact player for now.
Up top, it's a case of who partners Jermaine Beckford. The 24-goal hitman is surely the first name on the teamsheet, when fit. Luciano Becchio has drifted in and out of form this season and just when you think he's got it together again he has a nightmare. And there have been plenty of calls for Mike Grella to get a start after some decent displays in a cameo role from the bench.
Its all to play for and Mr Grayson has got some big decisions to make!
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