Ethan Ampadu’s injury was the only disappointment of Leeds United’s 3-0 win over Coventry City.
Ampadu was forced off in the first half at Elland Road with a knee issue after appearing to twist it in a strong challenge where he won the ball.
This is the first time since his £7 million move from Chelsea in July last year that Ampadu has missed a substantial amount of minutes in a league match, but thankfully it did not cost Leeds.
Daniel Farke chose Ao Tanaka as the player to take his place and the Japan international produced an excellent display, in what was his first proper run out for Leeds.
Wilfried Gnonto, Jayden Bogle and Joel Piroe were the men on the scoresheet, with Leeds now up to fifth in the Championship.
Farke shares immediate Ampadu injury update after Leeds win
Even after Tanaka’s performance, Ampadu’s injury will undoubtedly be cause for concern considering the week ahead of Leeds.
Farke’s side face long away trips in quick succession to Norwich City and Sunderland, and so if he is out for any period of time, it is likely he will miss the next two.
Perhaps one positive that can be taken from his injury is that he did at least try and continue, before then walking from the field of play without any assistance.
Farke was asked to provide an immediate update on Ampadu’s fitness in his post-match press conference, and revealed the Leeds captain feels ‘positive’ it isn’t too bad.
He said: “Knee. Definitely too painful to go because he normally tries everything to stay on the pitch. More positive after the game and does not think it’s too bad. Have to wait for further assessment.”
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Leeds need Ampadu amid ongoing Pascal Struijk and Max Wober injuries
It goes without saying that Ampadu is absolutely vital to the way Leeds play, but his availability is made more important by other injuries in the squad.
Pascal Struijk’s inclusion today came after a late decision on his fitness, while Max Wober also looks like he will be out for the next few weeks.
If Ampadu is out, Leeds have no senior cover at centre-back and with Struijk clearly needing to be managed, it is far from ideal.
Farke mentioned James Debayo in his press conference earlier this week and perhaps he will be needed sooner than he expected.
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