Leeds United could unleash forgotten favourite while Farke weighs up debut vs Bristol

Leeds United visit Bristol City in a 12.30pm kick-off at Ashton Gate this afternoon, with the chance to go to the top of the Championship table. Daniel Farke travels to stand-in boss Chris Hogg's side with only one two wins in their last six league games, but an unbeaten streak of the same length.

Here are five things to look out for around this afternoon's contest.

Who replaces Firpo at left-back?

The Whites will have to do without Junior Firpo for the first time this season. The left-back has been an ever-present up to now, starting every game in all competitions, but picked up his fifth yellow card on Tuesday night.

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The Dominican’s suspension will mean Farke needs to make at least one enforced change. Sam Byram, who was so effective in the first half of last season and has long held the German’s favour, will be the smart-money bet over Isaac Schmidt. It's been a long wait for Byram to get his chance.

Coping without Ramazani

Farke confirmed dreadful news for Largie Ramazani on Friday. The Belgian winger will be missing from four to six weeks with an ankle ligament injury, just as he was picking up a head of steam with three goals in six starts.

Thankfully, Manor Solomon and Daniel James are well on their way back to full fitness after their own injury issues in recent weeks. Given that Solomon was out of action for less time than James and was Farke’s first port of call in midweek, the Israeli seems the likeliest starter.

Two more on the suspension tightrope

Firpo was the first to fall from the five-yellow high wire, but Joe Rodon and Jayden Bogle have still got their arms out at full stretch. The defenders need to get to December 7 without picking up another yellow card, or they will also miss a match.

Farke will hope, if he does have to lose them, it is staggered to ease the strain on his squad.

Can they go top?

This will be United’s fourth consecutive chance to win a fixture and go top of the league. A two-goal winning margin in the lunchtime kick-off will be enough to leapfrog Sunderland on goal difference.

Burnley and the Black Cats can then go back above Leeds in the 3pm kick-offs. The Clarets host Queens Park Rangers, while Sunderland host Oxford United.

Does Guilavogui get a debut?

Josuha Guilavogui arrived in the week on a contract until the end of the season, though he has not been involved in a team set-up for more than five months. Farke seemed to manage expectations in yesterday’s press conference, reasserting there is no urgent need for the Frenchman to be parachuted in immediately.

A place in the squad seems sensible to aid his integration with the group, but do not be surprised if it remains watching brief all afternoon. Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell will almost certainly continue to start.