‘More than serious’ – Bielsa confirms provides latest Leeds injury update, three players missing vs Brighton – originally posted on Sportslens.com
Leeds United will face Brighton and Hove Alion at the Amex Stadium on Saturday in the Premier League.
Ahead of the match, Marcelo Bielsa has covered various topics, including the team news.
The Argentine has confirmed that Raphinha will miss the tie with a thigh injury. Another summer signing, Rodrigo, is healthy but he is not fit enough to start.
Leeds skipper Liam Cooper is also missing as he serves the final game of his three-match ban.
TEAM NEWS: LEEDS UNITED
Brighton away (Sat, KO:3pm)
Rodrigo (muscle) recovered but not definitely in squad
Raphinha (thigh) still feeling pain from haematoma. Close to final stages of recovery
— Adam Pope (@apopey) April 29, 2021
More on Raphinha
The Brazilian has been outstanding this season for Leeds. However, Bielsa has confirmed that his situation is more than serious, and it is difficult at the moment to predict when he will return. He said to Leeds Live:
“More than serious is more difficult to give a diagnostic of and difficult to give return date.
A hit which created an internal hematoma that hematoma disappears causes pain and inhibits mobility. Can be resolved quickly or take longer. Hematoma reduces and the player is no longer in pain he will return quickly. Impression is final stages before finally healed.”
Rodrigo
The Spaniard is “healthy” at the moment, but he is unlikely to be a part of the squad.
“Healthy. That doesn’t mean he is fit to play. We will see how many minutes he can play.”
Ian Poveda
Bielsa has also commented on Poveda and whether he can be an option.
The 21-year-old Leeds forward has made 12 substitute appearances this season and has impressed in the cameo role against Liverpool and Manchester United.
The Argentine, however, has suggested that he has not considered the option of playing him in the #10 position at the moment.
Leeds are in very good form at the moment, with Bielsa’s side being undefeated in their last six games.
In other news, check out the tactical analysis between PSG vs Manchester City.