When Leeds parted ways with the likes of Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha, there was the perception that they would suffer without the presence of their two key players.
However, Leeds have become more of a team under Jesse Marsch, a feeling which was strengthened as his side responded from conceding a two-goal lead at Southampton to outfighting Chelsea at the weekend.
Although the Yorkshire giants had to ride their luck during the opening quarter, their work-rate and tenacity was rewarded as they forced Chelsea into mistakes and deservedly prevailed by a 3-0 scoreline.
Collecting seven points from a possible nine in the Premier League may mean that this game will result in mass changes being made by Marsch, whose team next face a trip to fellow unbeaten team Brighton & Hove Albion.
Nevertheless, there is a spring in Leeds’ step right now and Marsch will select a team which he feels is good enough to advance through to the next round and retain local bragging rights.
Everyone associated with Barnsley will probably have mixed feelings about facing Leeds at Elland Road when they are at the top of their game and the Tykes are not.
Nevertheless, this is another opportunity for Michael Duff’s side to record an eye-catching win after edging out Middlesbrough in the previous round of this competition.
However, Barnsley have struggled in the third tier, Duff watching his side lose by a 3-0 scoreline at home to Wycombe Wanderers at the weekend.
At this early stage, Barnsley remain just three points adrift of fifth position, but a trip to leaders Ipswich Town follows their 24-mile trip to their more illustrious neighbours.
Links >> Stream 1 HD Stream 2 HD Stream 3 HD Stream 4 HD
While Liam Cooper and Patrick Bamfordare closing in on returns from injury, Marsch may not want to risk either player from the opening whistle.
However, the players who were selected on the substitutes’ bench against Chelsea should all be handed starts, with Robin Koch and Pascal Struijk potentially the only players to retain their spots in the team due to injuries to other defenders.
Luis Sinisterra has been provided with 26 minutes across two substitute outings since recovering from a hamstring injury, setting up the former Feyenoord man to start this fixture
