Whelan issues verdict on Leeds teen replacing Llorente v West Ham after team news update
Noel Whelan has tipped Luke Ayling to replace Diego Llorente at the heart of the Leeds United defence against West Ham.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 30-year-old would get the nod over 18-year-old Leo Hjelde or the returning Pascal Struijk.
Bielsa confirmed during his press conference yesterday (14 January) that Struijk is an “option” after his recent injury absence.
Llorente is suspended for Sunday’s game after picking up five yellow cards this season.
The Spaniard did start alongside Hjelde during the teenager’s debut in last week’s FA Cup clash.
However, Whelan suggested Bielsa could opt to utilise veteran defender Ayling at centre-back once again – having done so eight times already this term.
“It may be that Luke Ayling has to come back in at centre-back,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“I think we need that experienced head in there. Stuart Dallas could then get pushed out to right-back. I’d rather not, but it’s not the worst thing that can happen.
“That gives us a real solid backline to work with. It’s a real positive to have more experienced players like Firpo and Struijk back.”
Charlie Cresswell and Liam Cooper remain long-term injury absentees for Leeds United in the centre-back berth.
The Whites sit 16th in the Premier League ahead of their trip to the London Stadium.
Bielsa’s side have built an eight-point gap to the drop zone.
In other news, pundit urges Leeds United to sign a “top” forward this month after reveal yesterday.