Javi Gracia avoided divulging updates on the fitness of his Leeds United squad leaving question marks around Max Wober and Marc Roca – so, which players are fit and which are missing for’s Saturday game against Southampton?
Here, LeedsUnited.News looks at the players that could return for Satuday’s crucial match – which players look to be doubtful and which players are definitely missing from the outing. A must-win game, come Saturday afternoon.
Which Leeds players are fit for Saturday’s game against Southampton?
Definitely missing:
Stuart Dallas – The versatile star is now approaching a year on the sidelines after his leg break back in May 2022. The midfielder had an operation to clear up a few issues in January, but he continues to be out of action for Leeds.
Archie Gray – Talented teen Gray has been missing for a number of months with an ankle issue. But he is likely to be back in contention in the next few weeks. But, even if fit, it is unlikely Leeds blood the midfielder in coming months.
Rodrigo – The Spain striker has undergone surgery to correct an injury suffered after coming on as a sub against Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup. He is expected to be sidelined until the latter days in March at the earliest.
Adam Forshaw – Forshaw remains sidelined with Leeds taking his fitness very carefully, given the injury did keep him out for almost two years prior. It will be interesting to see how much more he plays before his contract expires.
Doubtful:
Luis Sinisterra – The Colombian pulled a muscle in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United early on and was forced off. Michael Skubala said he was behind Liam Cooper and Marc Roca and it is unlikely we will see him on Saturday.
Max Wober – This all points to the severity of the shoulder injury he suffered against Everton. While no confirmation has been made regarding the injury, it is unlikely he plays on Saturday. Ben Dinnery said he could be back soon.
Should be back:
Liam Cooper – Cooper was an unused sub against Everton but with Wober injured, Rasmus Kristensen was used off the bench instead. It is likely that with a week’s training under his belt, Cooper could come in and start at the back.
Marc Roca – Roca’s time frame was compared to that of Cooper. Less so than Sinisterra, another week recovering may see the Spaniard back involved on Saturday. Unlikely to start though, depending on Gracia’s system choice.
Pascal Struijk – Struijk was expected to be involved against Everton after undergoing concussion protocol. But, he suffered a minor setback so missed the 1-0 loss. Now, he is likely to be available come Saturday against The Saints.
