Several reasons can be given for Leeds United's struggles this season but it is difficult to deny the impact injuries have had on the Whites. They have been deprived of the services of key players for lengthy spells and as a result, unproven young prospects have been thrust into the limelight.
The emergence of young talent has perhaps been the only positive to be taken from the injury crisis but the impact of absences has certainly been felt. Even though Leeds can currently name a squad mostly comprised of senior players, there are still plenty of sidelined squad members.
Injuries are regularly a topic of conversation at press conferences and using updates from Leeds head coach Jesse Marsch, LeedsLive have compiled a list of the current injured players.
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Junior Firpo - knee
Marsch provided a positive update on Firpo ahead of the meeting with Watford, claiming the defender is making 'good progress'. He has not featured for the Whites since being forced off during the defeat to Aston Villa last month and has been covered for at left-back by the versatile Stuart Dallas.
What Marsch has said (7/4/22): “Junior [is] making good progress.”
Potential return date: 25/4/22
Jamie Shackleton - calf/shin/heel
Shackleton has endured a frustrating campaign due to injury and picked up his latest issue whilst on duty for the under-23s against Manchester United at Elland Road. However, he is approaching a return to training therefore could soon make a return to Marsch's squad for a matchday.
What Marsch has said (7/4/22): “Jamie [is] almost ready to train but not quite.”
Potential return date: Unknown
Adam Forshaw - calf
Eyebrows were raised when Forshaw was absent from the squad named to face Watford, despite being seen at Vicarage Road. He had picked up a calf issue and consequently was not risked, but could return to training within the next week.
What Marsch has said (9/4/22): " Yeah, I think he [will be back for the Crystal Palace game]. He might even be in training this week, he just had a little bit of a calf issue and we didn't want to risk him.
Potential return date: This week
Tyler Roberts - hamstring
Roberts has undergone surgery since he picked up a hamstring injury in Marsch's first game in charge, the 1-0 defeat to Leicester City. The Wales international will be hoping he is fit enough to attempt to prove his value to the head coach during the American's first pre-season.
What Marsch has said (31/3/22): “Tyler is looking good and feeling good and even though he won’t be back this season, we feel like the surgery was a success and that he’s on the start to a good path.”
Potential return date: 27/6/22
Patrick Bamford - foot
Bamford faces a race against time to be fit enough to play a part for Leeds before the season ends, although they may choose not to risk him even if he does return before the last game. He had only recently returned from a layoff when he ruptured his plantar fascia against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
What Marsch has said (7/4/22): "Unfortunately, he ruptured a small part of [plantar fascia]. He’s already feeling better than he felt before. So, we’re hopeful that the six week prognosis that we gave is accurate.”
Potential return date: 15/5/22
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