HEREFORD United face one of their sternest tasks in an already tricky season when they visit Elland Road to take on Leeds United in a League 1 clash on Saturday.

Bottom-of-the-table Bulls have yet to collect a point on their travels after suffering three straight away league defeats at Leyton Orient, Bristol Rovers and Southend as well as a reverse in the Carling Cup at Crystal Palace.

But if United are seeking a confidence boost, they can look back with pride on their excellent performance at the Yorkshire club’s headquarters in the FA Cup last season when Lionel Ainsworth’s early strike gave the Bulls a famous first-round replay victory.

And that after a fine display at Edgar Street when Leeds were lucky to escape with a goalless draw in front of the Sky TV cameras.

“A lot of the players who played at Elland Road last year will be going back there and we enjoyed that experience,” said director of football Graham Turner.

“There is nothing to fear.”

One of the biggest crowds ever to watch United in league action is expected with the former Premiership giants averaging attendances of more than 20,000.

But, as Turner pointed out, that can sometimes work against the home side.

“There will be a terrific atmosphere which our players will have to get used to, but the crowd will expect Leeds to steamroller us,” he said.

“So if they are not doing so, then the crowd can get on their backs.”

Turner will be without long-term casualties Sam Oji and Robbie Threlfall, while Steve Guinan (groin injury) is also out of contention. Oji does not require surgery on his knee injury but Threlfall has had an operation on his broken foot.

Andy Williams is doubtful for the trip to Elland Road but there is better news about Moses Ashikodi who is now back in full training after recovering from a foot injury suffered in a reserves match at Shrewsbury.

With numbers depleted by this succession of injuries, Turner is hoping to boost his squad before the trip north.

“We are working on one at the moment and are hopeful of bringing in an experienced defender,” he said.