Leeds United vs. Millwall: Daniel Farke Set to Make Seven Changes for FA Cup Clash
Daniel Farke is expected to make as many as seven changes to his Leeds United lineup when they face Millwall in the FA Cup fourth round at Elland Road on Saturday. With a crucial Championship match against Watford coming just three days later, the German manager has emphasized the importance of squad rotation in his pre-match press conference on February 6.
Despite the changes, Leeds will still field a strong side, as the incoming players are all regular competitors for the starting XI. The Whites are currently on a 14-match unbeaten run in all competitions and will be looking to maintain that momentum against Millwall while ensuring key players remain fresh for their promotion push.
Mateo Joseph to Lead the Line in Leeds’ Attack
One of the most significant changes is expected to be Mateo Joseph leading the attack. The young Spaniard has shown promise this season, but his opportunities have been limited behind Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford in the pecking order. However, Leeds’ decision not to sign another striker in the January transfer window signals their faith in Joseph, and this match provides him with a golden opportunity to prove himself.
Joseph recently ended his goal drought in the 7-0 demolition of Cardiff City, and he will be eager to build on that momentum. He is expected to be supported by Wilfried Gnonto and Largie Ramazani, both of whom also scored in that Cardiff rout.
Ramazani, in particular, has been a revelation since arriving from Almería in the summer. The Belgian winger started the season strongly before being sidelined with an ankle injury, but he has since returned and will be looking to cement his place in Farke’s plans. Gnonto, too, has had a stop-start campaign, but his goal against Cardiff reminded everyone of his attacking quality.
Manor Solomon, who has been in sensational form out wide, is likely to retain his place in the starting lineup. The Israeli winger has provided a consistent attacking threat in recent weeks and could be the key to unlocking Millwall’s defense. However, Dan James, another in-form winger, may be rested, given his heavy involvement in the league.
Midfield Adjustments: Gruev and Rothwell to Feature
In midfield, Ilia Gruev and Joe Rothwell are expected to start together in the double pivot. Gruev, who started against Coventry, has been growing in confidence and is now an important figure in Farke’s midfield. Bournemouth loanee Rothwell, on the other hand, has had a more mixed spell at Leeds but will be eager to impress if given the nod.
One of the main reasons for this midfield reshuffle is the need to rest Ao Tanaka, who has been instrumental for Leeds in the Championship. The Japanese international has been a key orchestrator in midfield, and Farke is likely to give him a much-needed break to ensure he remains sharp for upcoming league fixtures.
Brenden Aaronson is also expected to be rested after his high-energy performance against Coventry. The American midfielder has covered a tremendous amount of ground in recent matches, and with important league fixtures ahead, giving him a breather makes sense.
Defensive Changes: Wöber and Struijk Set for Returns
Leeds have been dealing with defensive injuries for much of the season, but Saturday’s game presents an opportunity to ease Maximilian Wöber and Pascal Struijk back into action. Both players have struggled with fitness issues this campaign, but Farke will see this FA Cup tie as the perfect chance to get them valuable game time.
At right-back, Jayden Bogle is expected to start again, following his standout display against Coventry. Bogle has brought balance and attacking thrust to Leeds’ right flank, and his experience could be crucial against Millwall.
With Wöber likely slotting in at left-back, Junior Firpo may be rested, despite his stunning performance against Cardiff, where he registered a hat-trick of assists. The Dominican Republic international is still recovering from injury, and Farke will want to manage his minutes carefully.
In central defense, Ethan Ampadu is expected to shift into a centre-back role, partnering either Struijk or Wöber. Ampadu’s versatility has been a major asset for Leeds, and this move will allow Farke to rest Joe Rodon, who has played every single Championship game this season.
Goalkeeper Rotation: Karl Darlow in for Meslier
One of the more predictable changes will be in goal, where Karl Darlow is set to replace Illan Meslier. The French goalkeeper has been an ever-present figure for Leeds in the league, and Farke has consistently used Darlow in cup matches this season.
Darlow has only made a handful of appearances since joining from Newcastle, but he remains an experienced and reliable backup. This match will give him a rare chance to impress, though he is unlikely to displace Meslier as the club’s first-choice keeper.
Key Players Rested
Illan Meslier – Due for a rest after starting every league match.
Joe Rodon – One of only two outfield players to start every Championship game this season.
Junior Firpo – Still returning to full fitness after injury.
Ao Tanaka – Given a break after heavy reliance in midfield.
Brenden Aaronson – Has covered a lot of ground and needs rest.
Dan James – In great form but likely to be rotated.
Joel Piroe – Dropped to the bench to give Mateo Joseph a start.
A Balanced Approach: Leeds Still Strong Despite Rotations
Despite making seven expected changes, Farke’s squad will still be packed with quality, proving the depth Leeds possess this season. The manager has carefully balanced squad rotation while maintaining a competitive XI that should be more than capable of beating Millwall at Elland Road.
Leeds’ recent form, combined with the hunger of players like Joseph, Ramazani, and Gruev to make an impact, should give them the upper hand. The FA Cup is an important competition, but Farke’s ultimate focus remains on securing Premier League promotion, which explains his pragmatic approach to squad management.
If the rotated squad delivers a strong performance, it will further reinforce the belief that Leeds are well-equipped for both a deep FA Cup run and a sustained promotion push in the Championship.