Steven Gerrard experiments before Leeds clash
Leeds United last played in the Premier League on January 22 as they lost 1-0 to Newcastle United at Elland Road. They are hoping to put that result right as they face Aston Villa when they return to action on Wednesday February 9.
During this clash, managers Steven Gerrard and Marcelo Bielsa will face one another for the first time and the Aston Villa man has been experimenting with his line-up options in preparation.
Whilst Leeds have been content with multiple murderball sessions during the break, Villa have played two friendlies. The first was a win against Brentford before they faced Norwegian side Molde.
During the Molde match, Gerrard tweaked the shape of his midfield. Youngster Jacob Ramsey had been playing in a midfield three with Douglas Luiz and John McGinn since the former Liverpool man took the reins at Villa Park but for this match he was shifted into an attacking midfield position as one of the two behind Ollie Watkins up front.
Villa seem more likely to line up with Phillipe Coutinho in that role against the Whites but Gerrard could be set to spring a tactical surprise at some stage in the game.
Raphinha's worth highlighted
With news of West Ham United's rejected £50million bid for Raphinha fresh in the memory, the Brazilian's transfer value is something of a point of discussion.
Leeds want to keep their star winger and they remain in contract talks with his agent, Deco. However, it's clear that he will attract bidders in the summer and one of those bidders might find the right price to tempt Leeds to do a deal.
However, that price will be significantly more than £50million. Given he's already proven himself as an elite player at Premier League level, his value is more likely to be in the realms of Jadon Sancho, Romelu Lukaku or Jack Grealish.
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Ex-Leeds United midfielder sends Jonny Howson message as he inflicts another FA Cup shock on Man United
Middlesbrough defeated Manchester United on penalties in the FA Cup fourth round last night, with ex-Leeds United players Jonny Hoswon, Sol Bamba and Lee Peltier all scoring their spot-kicks.
Leeds fans particularly enjoyed their former homegrown captain Howson celebrating in front of the Stretford End and one of his former teammates at Elland Road sent him a message on social media in the aftermath.
"Johnny boyyy #alaw," wrote Bradley Johnson on Twitter.
