Leeds United hit with fresh injury blow following lightning start against Watford

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Leeds United were quickly out of the blocks against Watford but their fast start was tempered by an injury to a key first-team star.

Daniel Farke named an unchanged starting XI from the side that defeated Sheffield United 2-0 on Friday night and his selection was quickly vindicated when the hosts took an early lead at Elland Road.

Only four minutes were on the clock when summer signing Largie Ramazani pulled the trigger from the edge of the box, with Watford goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann seeing the shot slip through his hands before he unsuccessfully attempted to paw the ball away.

A second goal followed on seven minutes, when birthday boy Brendan Aaronson took advantage of another poor piece of goalkeeper, when he stroked the ball home following a poor parry by the stopper.

Largie Ramazani limps off

Leeds’ joy at their two early goals was then checked as Ramazani was shaken by a heavy tackle, shortly after the second goal went in.

After some initial treatment, the 23-year-old attempted to play on, but was soon on the deck again and was replaced by Tottenham loanee Manor Solomon.

Ramazani has quickly settled into life at Leeds since his summer move from Almeria, with tonight’s goal his third of the season.

Leeds squad depth tested as injuries pile up

Farke will likely give an update following the clash against the Hornets, but Leeds can ill-afford another injury during what is a hectic part of the Championship season.

Defender Max Wober is absent after recovering from a knee injury, while central midfield duo Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev are long-term absentees.

Added to the mix is the threat of potential suspensions for the likes of Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon and Junior Firpo, who are all on four yellow cards, while Wilfried Gnonto is one back on three. A fifth booking before Leeds’ 19th fixture would result in a one-match ban.

Next up for Leeds is a Saturday lunchtime trip to Bristol City.