Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa has given his pre-match press conference and it could be that Eddie Nketiah gets the chance many fans have been calling for against Queens Park Rangers.
The usual choice of striker, Patrick Bamford, is struggling with an ankle problem and Marcelo Bielsa has been hesitant to risk players who aren’t 100% fit. So, it is now likely that England u21 striker Nketiah will get the nod.
Injury latest from Bielsa - Pablo Hernandez is available but Patrick Bamford has an ankle problem. Alioski (side) and Douglas (knee) are doubts as well. Forshaw is still out. #lufc
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) October 31, 2019
It is far from the only injury problem for Leeds. Adam Forshaw remains out with his hip injury, and left-back options Ezgjan Alioski and Barry Douglas are struggling with side and knee injuries respectively. If both have to miss the game it could be an opportunity for 19 year old left-back Leif Davis, who has done well when called upon previously. However, it could also be a back four of Luke Ayling, Ben White, Liam Cooper, Stuart Dallas - with the Northern Ireland man switching to left-back.
*Leif Davis puts in the cross for Leeds’ equaliser*
— Tom Carnduff (@TomC_22) August 27, 2019
Everyone:pic.twitter.com/q4yaOXTDIN
The good news for Leeds fans is that according to Bielsa: “Pablo Hernandez is good”. Leeds have missed the ex-Spain internationals creativity during his injury so his return is very welcome. It remains to be seen whether he will be fit enough to start the match against QPR.
Marcelo on Pablo Hernandez: "He's a player who when he is not there, we miss. He gives a lot of contribution in every match, but Helder Costa is also growing match by match and he can play." pic.twitter.com/jMIYmkzuzf
— Leeds United (@LUFC) October 31, 2019