Jesse Marsch has provided a latest fitness update on his Leeds United squad ahead of Saturday's crunch trip to Watford. The Whites are looking to stretch their unbeaten run to four matches after picking up an impressive seven points from their last nine available.
They currently sit in 16th in the Premier League table, six points above the relegation zone following Burnley's dramatic win over Everton on Wednesday. However, Leeds still have work to do to mathematically secure their top flight status for the 2022/23 season, with a number of sides still in the battle to avoid the drop.
Kalvin Phillips and Liam Cooper both returned from injury in the 1-1 draw with Southampton last weekend and there is no doubt the duo will give the Whites a massive boost for the remainder of the season. Leeds have had huge problems with injuries this term and will need as many of their star players fit as they can for the run-in.
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Patrick Bamford was ruled out for six weeks last month following his latest setback, and Marsch says the striker, Junior Firpo and Tyler Roberts are making 'good progress'. Jamie Shackleton is 'almost ready to train' after recovering from a heel injury.
Joe Gelhardt picked up a knock in the Under 23s win over Crystal Palace and could be available for the trip to Watford, despite not having trained so far this week, wit Marsch hoping the forward trains on Friday ahead of the Saturday 3pm clash. Leo Hjelde, who has been out since February, is back in contention to feature as Leeds boast no more fresh injury worries.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Marsch said: "Both (Phillips and Cooper) have a big effect in our group on and off the pitch. Liam courageous 90-plus performance.
"One of our best players. Matched tactically what we want from the game. Really impressive to adapt so quickly and easily.
"Kalvin brought poise and settled the game down. He said he didn't do much, but just being on the pitch meant a lot. This week got them more and more to 100 per cent. He's ready to contribute on Saturday."
He added: "No real updates. Tyler, Junior and Patrick are all making good progress. Jamie Shackleton is almost ready to train, not quite. Hjelde and others all available."
