Marcelo Bielsa will be looking to stretch Leeds United’s unbeaten start to the Championship season this weekend against Middlesbrough, with Tony Pulis’ side arriving at Elland Road with an identical record to the Whites after five fixtures.

Leeds have looked exceptional under Bielsa, whilst Pulis’ side have been their efficient best, keeping four consecutive clean sheets leading up to tomorrow night’s clash.

Looking to breach that strong Boro defensive unit will be Kemar Roofe, who is the latest feature of our FLW Duel alongside Britt Assombalonga.

Roofe has been in extraordinary form so far for Leeds, keeping Patrick Bamford benched.

The 25-year-old has four goals in his five league appearances, adding two further assists to that tally.

It’s been an exceptional start, particularly when compared to Boro’s focal point, with Assombalonga not managing to provide an assist and scoring just twice.

However, it isn’t just Roofe’s influence in the goalscoring department that is superior. The Leeds forward is averaging 0.4 shots per game more than Assombalonga, as well as 0.4 more passes every time he takes to the field.

In possession, Roofe is averaging a pass success rate of 78.4%, which is better than Assombalonga’s 72.6%.

The Verdict

It’s going to be a tight game at Elland Road on Friday, and one of these two forwards could make the difference.

So far this season, Roofe has been superb, with goals and assists flowing for the 25-year-old.

Although he looks superior to Assombalonga on paper, the Boro forward will also be a big threat on Friday, particularly with his ability to provide Pulis’ side with a target at the top of the pitch.

Other factors will come into play in Leeds tomorrow, but it could be the single goal either way that wins the three points.

Roofe and Assombalonga will be the men their respective clubs turn to for those goals.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

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