Paul Heckingbottom will be encouraged by what he has seen during his three fixtures in-charge of Leeds United, with the Whites putting in some impressive performances of late.  

On Wednesday night, Leeds were just minutes away from picking up three points against Derby County, only for Kasey Palmer’s late goal to snatch a first victory of 2018 away from the Whites and their new head-coach.

Heading into this weekend, Leeds sit 11th in the Championship table, eight points adrift of the top-six, knowing that their season hangs in the balance with victories now crucial.

Heckingbottom’s side entertain Brentford at Elland Road tomorrow afternoon, with Leeds now edging closer to a full squad after a number of key players returned at Pride Park during the week.

Here at FLW, we take a look at Heckingbottom’s squad and select the starting XI we believe should be fielded against Brentford this weekend…

Wiedwald has been far from convincing in recent weeks, but Leeds simply don’t have a better option, he must continue.

Berardi made a return to the starting XI on Wednesday evening at Derby, and with Luke Ayling still a long-term absentee, the Swiss full-back can expect to continue.

Liam Cooper struggled at Derby during the week, and there is definitely a case for Pennington to come back in for Leeds’ captain.

Jansson was immense for Leeds at Derby, and if Heckingbottom’s side are to get a victory this weekend, they will need another towering performance from the Swede.

De Bock struggled against Derby on Wednesday, but without any serious competition in the squad, you would expect to see the Belgian full-back continue.

Dallas laid on a classy assist at Derby during the week, and has featured in every fixture under Heckingbottom.

The Northern Irishman should continue.

We are yet to see Anita in his natural position, and with Ronaldo Vieira struggling during the week, Saturday could be the perfect time for the Dutchman to be given the nod in central midfield.

Forshaw is looking like a really classy addition to Leeds’ midfield.

He is almost certain to continue for Heckingbottom this weekend against Brentford.

Alioski made an instant impact at Derby and got his name on the scoresheet at Pride Park.

With Pablo Hernandez struggling with injury, the £2.7m-rated winger has an opportunity to return.

Saiz was back with a bang against Derby on Wednesday, and Heckingbottom has to start him this weekend.

A new 4-4-2 formation will see the 27-year-old pushed into a second striker role.

Lasogga has been terrific recently for Leeds, and Heckingbottom will be delighted with the striker’s contribution.