Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford is not expected make a long-awaited return from injury at Elland Road this weekend.
Marcelo Bielsa has confirmed in his pre-match press conference this afternoon that Bamford has picked up a new injury in the 'bottom of his foot' ahead of the fixture against Newcastle United.
Bamford originally injured his ankle in a challenge at St James' Park back in September and has subsequently missed 14 of the Whites' last 15 league games.
The one exception came in December, as Bamford made what proved to be a premature comeback, scoring off the bench in the 2-2 draw with Brentford.
The England forward injured his hamstring during the celebrations for the last-gasp equaliser in that game and has been sidelined ever since.
His latest six-week absence and subsequent new injury is an area of considerable frustration for Leeds supporters. The Argentine indicated in last week's post-match press conference that he feels attacking players require a greater recovery time to recapture their best form and optimum sharpness.
A return which mirrors Pascal Struijk's comeback against West Ham last weekend, in that case, appears unlikely.
Even Bamford's inclusion in the matchday squad would have been a welcome boost to supporters - and his teammates alike.
"Forshaw and Firpo have muscular injuries. Bamford has a new injury at the bottom of his foot. He's overcome his muscular problems but now he has a problem at the bottom of his foot," Bielsa said in his pre-match press conference.
On the injury front, Leeds are still without Kalvin Phillips, Liam Cooper, Charlie Cresswell and Jamie Shackleton.
Adam Forshaw stated earlier this week that his hamstring injury, sustained against West Ham five days ago, was not a severe issue and that there was a possibility he could be involved at Elland Road this weekend.
That said, Bielsa did confirm his injury was 'muscular' and did not indicate he would be available for selection.
Junior Firpo was also withdrawn at the London Stadium with what looked to be a similar issue to Forshaw, and joins the absentee list.
