Jesse Marsch and his 26-man Leeds United squad have taken to the air this weekend as they travel to Australia for this summer’s pre-season tour. The Whites will take on Brisbane Roar on Thursday, July 14, with games to follow against Premier League opposition in Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.
The headline from Marsch’s squad announcement inevitably surrounded one of the omitted names, with Raphinha remaining in the UK. That news all but confirmed earlier reports that the Brazilian has asked not to travel to Australia as he attempts to accelerate his departure from Elland Road - presumably to Barcelona or Chelsea.
The more positive of those in West Yorkshire will have been drawn to the fact that all six summer signings are included, with the tour of Australia presenting a chance to see all but Roca, who played against Blackpool on Thursday, for the first time in a Leeds shirt - the new one as well.
