Second-placed Leeds United gets ready to host Championship leaders Leicester City at Elland Road, a number of players are being evaluated in the Thorp Arch treatment room. Will Leeds United able to overtake Leicester City?
Things are becoming very intriguing at the top of the table, as the two clubs get ready to face off at Elland Road. The Whites come into the much awaited encounter with an eight-game winning streak.
As for the leaders, the Foxes struggled at home against Middlesbrough. In spite of the loss, City is still in the lead for the championship. They have a better goal difference and lead United by nine points.
BBC pundit makes honest claim about Daniel Farke’s style of play and how it has affected Leeds United
Patrick Bamford
Due to a calf injury sustained by Bamford during the warm-up against Swansea City last week, United was forced to make a last-minute change to their starting lineup. Joel Piroe, who scored against his old team, took his place in the attacking lineup.
What Farke said before Plymouth: “We expect him to be out not too long. I don’t expect he’ll be back for the upcoming game against Leicester. It would be a nice positive surprise if he could. He’s out for 10-12 days.”
Return date: Possibly Chelsea
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Sam Byram
Due to a hamstring issue, Byram has missed the last two fixtures. The 30-year-old has been a first team regular, appearing 28 times across all competitions.
What Farke said before Plymouth: “Hamstring problems. Also don’t think he’ll be available for the Leicester game.”
Return date: Possibly Chelsea
Pascal Struijk
The Dutch defender has been absent from the past 12 matches due to an adductor problem. His injury setback prompted Farke to switch Ethan Ampadu to centre-back. Ampadu has formed a strong partnership at the back with Joe Rodon.
What Farke said before Plympouth: “With Pascal he will have important re-scan at the beginning of next week and doctors will decide if he can extend his training load. We’ll have a clearer view next week.”
Return date: Mid-March
Karl Darlow
The experienced shot-stopper, who has largely provided cover for No 1 Illan Meslier since arriving from Newcastle United, is closing in on a first team return.
What Farke said before Plymouth: “I expect him to be available for the games before March international break.”
Return date: Possibly Chelsea
Stuart Dallas
It remains unclear when Dallas will be ready to return to action. Dallas is still on the comeback trail from the femoral fracture he suffered against Manchester City back in April of 2022.
What Farke said before Plymouth: “Stuart gets all the time he needs. It’s not possible to speak about days or whatever, we back him, he sees different consultants and try everything to work in the most professional way. Don’t want to put any pressure on him in terms of giving a time frame.”
Return date: Unknown