Leeds United and Everton meet after injuries and suspensions

Leeds United host Everton on opening weekend with a mix of suspensions and fitness doubts shaping both lineups.

Leeds United and Everton meet after injuries and suspensions

Leeds United will host Everton at Elland Road on Monday night as the opening weekend concludes. Leeds are without Jaka Bijol due to suspension and have doubts over Sebastiaan Bornauw, Jayden Bogle and Dominic Calvert-Lewin because of fitness concerns. Sports Mole’s predicted Leeds XI is Lucas Perri; Byram, Rodon, Struijk, Gudmundsson; Tanaka, Ampadu, Stach; James, Piroe, Gnonto.

Everton are without Jarrad Branthwaite with a hamstring issue and have doubts over Vitaliy Mykolenko, Nathan Patterson and Jack Grealish. Their predicted XI: Pickford; O’Brien, Tarkowski, Keane, Mykolenko; Gueye, Garner, Dewsbury-Hall; Ndiaye, Beto, Grealish.

Injuries and suspensions turn this game into a test of squad depth rather than a showcase of the most famous names. Leeds still carry the momentum of a Championship title, but the absence of Bijol and fitness doubts around others could force a more conservative approach. Everton, meanwhile, will assess how quickly their new or fringe options can contribute to an opening-weekend result.

The match also highlights how managers balance risk early in the season. A few knocks and tight deadlines for fitness testing can redefine selection, hell-bent on avoiding long slips of form. The outcome may hinge on who can maintain rhythm in midfield and convert chances when they arise.

Highlights

The night will reveal where depth meets impact.