The continuation of this season’s injury problems at Leeds United will make Jesse Marsch’s already-tough task even tougher.
Extended lay-offs for key players certainly contributed to Marcelo Bielsa's downfall and the widespread belief is that he would still be in a job had it not been for the injuries.
However, that is a part of football that most teams have to deal with and ultimately, the Argentine was unable to cope.
The big news to come out of Leeds on Thursday, other than Marsch’s first press conference, was that Patrick Bamford returned to first-team training.
It should now mean that him, Liam Cooper and Kalvin Phillips are not too far away from Premier League involvement which would significantly boost the club’s survival hopes.
While the Bamford update was a positive one, there was a more negative update regarding the fitness of Diego Llorente who looks set to miss the trip to Leicester.
We have taken a look at the Spaniard’s situation as well as the situation of the other players who are either unavailable or doubtful for Saturday’s clash.
Patrick Bamford – foot
As mentioned, Bamford is edging closer to first-team involvement after being reintroduced to training at Thorp Arch.
His return is vital for Leeds who have really missed his presence in the frontline this season.
What Marsch said (03/03/22): “On that note, Patrick Bamford was in training today. We'll evaluate Patrick, see what that means - can he be on the bench or does he need a few more days? He's close, I can tell you that, he's close.”
Potential return date: 10/03/22 vs Aston Villa
Diego Llorente – unknown
An injury to Llorente is the last thing Leeds supporters will have wanted to hear from Marsch’s first press conference.
With Cooper also out, Whites fans will be desperate for him to come through a late fitness test ahead of the trip to the East Midlands.
What Marsch said (03/03/22): “Diego Llorente was not in training today, and he's questionable for the weekend.”
Potential return date: 10/03/22 vs Aston Villa
Kalvin Phillips – hamstring
Initially, it looked as though Phillips might be able to make his comeback at King Power Stadium with Bielsa stating he could be available at the beginning of March.
However, Marsch confirmed that him and Cooper are still not quite up to speed in terms of training and will need more time to get back to fitness.
What Marsch said (03/03/22): “Kalvin and Liam are both making progress but they won't be ready for the weekend, but they're on the pitch, they're working every day. They're getting closer and closer to being in team training.
“Obviously with Liam and Kalvin we've already spoken and there's a few others we're just going step by step, making sure we can prepare them as best as possible but we're not pushing too hard.”
Potential return date: 13/03/22 vs Norwich
Liam Cooper – hamstring
The returns of Phillips and Cooper seem as though they will come at the same time considering the pair both sustained the same injury in the same match.
Marsch would love to have his new captain available this weekend, especially if Llorente is unavailable, but he will have to wait.
What Marsch said (03/03/22): “Kalvin and Liam are both making progress but they won't be ready for the weekend, but they're on the pitch, they're working every day. They're getting closer and closer to being in team training.
“Obviously with Liam and Kalvin we've already spoken and there's a few others we're just going step by step, making sure we can prepare them as best as possible but we're not pushing too hard.”
Potential return date: 13/03/22 vs Norwich
Leo Hjelde – knee
One player that Marsch did not pass comment on was Leo Hjelde whose knee injury has disrupted a promising start to his Leeds career.
It is still unclear whether the young defender will require surgery on the injury or not.
What Bielsa said (18/02/22): "If the process in the next three weeks is effective, he would be available in that term. It could happen he may not recover in those 20 days, which would result in a surgery."
Potential return date: Unknown
