Daniel Farke has confirmed Junior Firpo is available for Leeds United for the first time this season.
Farke was speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Leeds’ trip to Leicester City on Friday, where he provided a positive update on the fitness of Firpo.
The 27-year-old has not featured in any game under Farke after picking up a knee injury in pre-season that ruled him out until September.
Upon his return to training, Firpo then unfortunately suffered a setback that has kept him out until now, with Farke having gradually eased him back into the fold over the last week or two.
Firpo has now finally been able to come through a full week of team training unscathed, which is undoubtedly a huge step forward in his recovery as he targets his first match since May.
Farke says Firpo ‘in the mix’ for Leicester vs Leeds
Speaking on whether Firpo would be in the squad on Friday night, Farke revealed he is ‘in the mix’ for the first time this season and therefore could be on the bench at the King Power Stadium.
He said: “Junior Firpo is in team training. This week was his first proper training week. He’s edging closer and no setback. He’s in the mix and available.”
There is no chance that Firpo will be thrown straight back in from the start at Leicester after such a long time out, and with Farke also confirming Sam Byram will be fit.
However, despite his struggles since joining from Barcelona, his return to the squad will be a boost for Leeds, particularly after the international break when the matches begin to come thick and fast.
Firpo will be able to ease the load on Byram at left-back and his attacking quality should also prove to be an asset at this level, particularly in matches where Leeds are going to dominate the majority of the ball.
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