Leeds United’s Sunderland roster was unveiled following the devastating injury to Ilia Gruev.

Injury-hit Leeds United could go top of the Championship with a convincing win at promotion rivals Sunderland this evening. The Whites, who remain the clear title favourites with the bookmakers, will be aiming to extend their unbeaten streak to four matches.

Standing in their way are the table-topping Black Cats, who have yet to drop a point at the Stadium of Light this season. United chief Daniel Farke said: “They (Sunderland) have done pretty well so far. We know it’s still the warm-up period for the Championship because there are so many games to come. But every game counts and in these early stages, you have to win as many points as possible.

“They’ve won many points, each and every home game. We know they are in good shape, good players, strong on the counter-attack. They are strong in all offensive positions and they have players who can score goals.

“Full of respect for their work but we know we are also in good shape and want to make sure we’re ready to go again on Friday. I expect a tight game against a good opponent.

“We have to be at our best to have a chance but in these moments when you don’t have the key players available, it’s about sticking together and creating unity in the squad. Once we are together and spirited we have a chance to win the next game.”

Farke will be without several first-team regulars going into the Wearside clash. Max Wober, Manor Solomon and Daniel James are definitely ruled out through injury. Club captain Ethan Ampadu is a long-term absentee.

Bulgarian international Ilia Gruev faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury in the midweek draw at Norwich City. United have confirmed Gruev picked up a “significant injury to his meniscus” and will undergo surgery in the coming days.

Summer signing Isaac Schmidt is in line to return to the matchday squad after shrugging off a minor glute problem.