Ryan Edmondson’s recent absence has gone somewhat under the radar. The striker has not played since scoring against Hull for the under-23s last month and it is not clear when he is expected to return.
Edmondson is a big loss for Carlos Corberan’s side. But when you consider the injuries that Marcelo Bielsa is currently having to contend with, it is no surprise that the striker’s problem has almost been forgotten.
However, one player who will now perhaps be hoping to make this period as memorable as possible is Sam Dalby.
Dalby has largely been overshadowed by Edmondson since arriving at Elland Road. The 18-year-old is still awaiting his first-team debut and appears to be lower down the pecking order than his teammate.
Edmondson’s absence only opens the first door for Dalby. His rival is out of the picture for the time-being. The former Leyton Orient man can potentially enjoy a decent run as first-choice for the under-23s.
If he impresses during that spell, then it may prove difficult for Edmondson to regain his place. And if Bielsa has further injuries to deal with, then perhaps Dalby can also sneak ahead of his teammate on the periphery of the first-team pecking order.
There is a lot of hard work ahead if Dalby wants to catch Bielsa’s eye. But Edmondson’s injury certainly boosts his chances.