Pascal Struijk has been a man mountain at the back for Leeds United under Daniel Farke, so his adductor injury has come as a blow – and the Leeds manager has delivered some more bad news.
The 24-year-old has now been missing for the last two Championship games with an adductor injury, having scored two goals in the two games prior to the loss against West Brom. Five goals this term.
Captaining the Leeds side when he plays, Struijk has been pretty much perfect. Liam Cooper has come in in the last two games – but even he might be sidelined come Sunday, against Peterborough United.
Asked about injuries in Friday’s press conference, Leeds manager Farke said – as per the club’s YouTube – that Sam Byram will be missing this weekend. He also says that Struijk’s injury is worse than feared.
“Sam Byram will definitely miss this game, a little tear in his hamstring. I hope he is available for Cardiff. The same for Pascal Struijk – his injury is worse than expected. A little doubt for Cardiff,” Farke said.
Pascal Struijk injury worse than feared according to Daniel Farke
Losing Struijk, for what might be a number of games having already missed two, is a big blow. His importance in the side is growing and growing, and his form is attracting the eye of clubs like PSG.
Leeds are expected to bring in new signings in January, especially with Byram on the sidelines and Djed Spence leaving the club to return to Tottenham. A decision that Leeds made, according to Phil Hay.
Perhaps, if Struijk’s injury worsens, Leeds may feel they need to bring in a central defender especially with doubts regarding the future of Charlie Cresswell. Sunderland, Rangers, Boro and Ipswich are keen.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
