Here are the latest Leeds United evening headlines on Monday, 7 February 2022.
Bamford injury latest
Patrick Bamford is struggling to overcome the foot issue that he suffered prior to Leeds United’s 3-2 win over West Ham last month.
Bamford has been plagued by injuries throughout the campaign and his latest problem again looks like it will keep him out for a prolonged period of time.
Speaking in his pre-Aston Villa press conference, Marcelo Bielsa has confirmed he will be absent again as the 28-year-old has not even started running yet.
He said: “Bamford hasn't improved. He continues with the problems at the bottom of his foot and he hasn't started jogging. So his situation continues the same way."
Read the rest of Bielsa’s team news update here.
Wilder hails ex-Whites midfielder Howson
Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder has opened up on the inspiration from Jonny Howson ahead of their FA Cup fourth round win at Manchester United.
Boro defeated the Red Devils 8-7 on penalties to become the first lower league side since Leeds United in 2010 to knock them out of the competition.
Howson, who was excellent at Old Trafford on Friday, was also part of the Leeds team that beat Man United 12 years ago, which the 33-year-old used as inspiration to spur Boro on.
Speaking after the match, Wilder said: “We talked to the players before the game and your career is defined by what you do in a season, and they are good Championship players. But on nights like this, you have to take the absolute maximum from it.
“I talked to Jonny and when Leeds came here and got a result and it was ‘can we come here and upset the odds’ and get the result and we have done and it is a fabulous night for everyone connected to the football club.
“The FA Cup’s alive and kicking, especially in Middlesbrough tonight.
“We were up against world-class players and rode our luck at times, but we showed plenty of spirit and took one of our opportunities.”
Bielsa on transfers
Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has praised the work done by the board in the January window despite the lack of signings.
The Whites failed to add anyone to their squad last month after they saw two bids for priority target Brenden Aaronson turned down by RB Salzburg.
Despite interest from elsewhere, Leeds did manage to keep both Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha at the club, which Bielsa was very pleased with.
He said: “It's very valuable we were able to keep the players that are wanted by other teams. That in itself has importance.
“With respect to no signings coming in, the possibility to improve the squad wasn't there.
“The club made the necessary efforts, and they also showed a willingness to contribute, a willingness to invest more money.
“So, as a result, I can only value everything that has been done.”
Read more here.
