This Sunday, Leeds United will face Sunderland at the Stadium of Light in their quest for a positive away result in the Premier League. Following an impressive 4-1 victory against Crystal Palace, the Whites are keen to maintain their momentum against the Black Cats.
Manager Daniel Farke is set to implement a 5-3-2 formation, with minimal changes expected in the lineup. Dominating the attack will be Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor, leading the forward line for the Yorkshire club.
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Predicted 5-3-2 Lineup for Leeds United Against Sunderland
Defensive Setup
In goal, Lucas Perri will look to build on his performance after conceding just one goal in his last match. Joe Rodon, Jaka Bijol, and Pascal Struijk will form the central defensive trio, aiming for a solid defensive display throughout the match.
Jayden Bogle will occupy the right-back position, while Gabriel Gudmundsson will take on the role of left-back. Both players will be encouraged to advance and contribute in the attacking play whenever possible.
James Justin will provide backup for the full-back positions from the bench.
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LEEDS, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 20: Anton Stach of Leeds United (R) celebrates with teammates Wilfried Gnonto (C) and Joel Piroe (L) after scoring the fourth goal during the Premier League match against Crystal Palace at Elland Road on December 20, 2025. (Photo by Ed Sykes/Getty Images)
Midfield Dynamics
Leeds’ midfield will feature Anton Stach, Ethan Ampadu, and Brenden Aaronson, focusing on maintaining possession and creating clear goal-scoring opportunities in the final third.
Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev will start on the bench, ready to make an impact in the second half if called upon.
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Attacking Force
Noah Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin will spearhead the attack for Leeds, tasked with working together to unsettle Sunderland’s defense throughout the match.
Joel Piroe will have to settle for a spot on the bench but may be brought on later in the match if the Whites need an extra boost in their quest for goals. On the other hand, Lukas Nmecha is not expected to recover in time to participate in this fixture.