Reid Spoilt For Choice

Last updated : 15 September 2003 By Kevin Markey

One player certainly out is Dominic Matteo, who picked up an injury in training, but having added eight players to the squad since the summer the boss is in the enviable position of having competition for every position.

The strength of the squad has seen players like David Batty left on the bench, whilst new signings Cyril Chapuis and Salomon Olembe have arrived with no guarantee of their places in the side.

"I will have a problem picking the team and the squad," said Reid.

"I think good players will be left out and that's what you want in the Premiership. I know I'll be disappointing some of them.

"You need that competition and it's great for me that I've got some players in and the chance to choose between quality players. A month ago I was panicking about the squad but now I have problems the other way where I have to leave some out."

Reid takes his side to the brand new Walkers Stadium in confident mood, the win over Middlesbrough having seen United given their just rewards for what performance wise, if not points wise, has been a good start to the season.

Tonight's game will present Leeds with a different scenario as they come up against a side that are prepared to really fight to try and prevent an immediate return to the Nationwide League.

"We've had a steady start but I'm not about to go overboard about it," said Reid.

"I've been pleased with the performances, we've looked really difficult to beat, I think we can improve in terms of keeping the ball and passing.

"The pleasing thing in the games is that we do look threatening, which we didn't in pre-season.

"We know what it's going to be like at Leicester. Micky's sides are always very hard working and physical so we have to stand up to that. We have to show we can battle.

"If you ask any of the lads they're chomping at the bit to get out there. The new stadium also adds extra spice to this one."

With the injury blow to Matteo, Reid will bring in Didier Domi for his full debut against The Foxes, whilst Roque Junior is being tipped to start after taking part in training over the weekend.

The World Cup winner should line up alongside Zoumana Camara with Domi at left-back in a new-look back-line.

Cameroon midfielder Salomon Olembe is likely to start on the bench with Reid reluctant to break up the Johnson/Morris partnership in midfield. Olembe could be joined by striker Cyril Chapuis.

Leicester boss Micky Adams will have to ring the changes against Leeds after a flurry of early-season red cards.

Alan Rogers, Ricardo Scimeca and Les Ferdinand are all suspended and Northern Ireland winger Keith Gillespie is doubtful after sustaining an ankle injury in the midweek Euro 2004 qualifier with Armenia.

Frank Sinclair, Matt Elliott and Callum Davidson are already ruled out, while John Curtis and Steve Howey (both hamstring) are battling to be fit.