Pascal Struijk looks set to provide Leeds United with a major lift ahead of their clash with Tottenham after the defender appeared to hint at his availability despite missing training last week.
There was clear uncertainty surrounding Struijk after assistant manager Eddie Riemer confirmed he was going to miss Friday training ahead of Leeds’ trip to Tottenham.
That immediately raised doubts about whether Daniel Farke would be without one of his most important defensive players for the clash in London, which at least has a lot less riding on it from Leeds’ angle.
West Ham’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday has made Leeds mathematically safe from relegation. Farke is one of only eight managers in Leeds’ history to survive in the top-flight, after winning promotion.
Struijk’s latest social media post quickly caught attention
However, the mood around Struijk’s availability shifted on Monday morning after the defender posted on Instagram before kickoff. It appears Struijk is expecting to be a part of the squad that faces Tottenham.
With Pascal Struijk fit, what are your predictions for tonight?
Big, big boost.
The image featured Leeds and Tottenham branding alongside the scheduled 20:00 kickoff time for the game, strongly suggesting the centre-back expects to be involved despite the injury concerns.
His availability would be a significant boost for Daniel Farke
Struijk has become a key defender for Leeds under Farke and remains one of the most reliable figures in the squad when fully fit.
Leeds also regularly rely on Struijk in high-level matches, with the defender repeatedly being trusted in major fixtures during Farke’s time at Elland Road.
Facing Tottenham without him would have left Leeds significantly weaker defensively given the attacking quality they are preparing to face in north London.
Typically, Struijk is a target for Tottenham ahead of the summer with Spurs now looking in a strong position to avoid relegation to the Championship. His contract at Elland Road is due to expire in 2027.
Leeds now appear to be in a stronger position than expected
Nothing has been officially confirmed regarding Struijk’s place in the squad, but his own actions have clearly changed the outlook surrounding his condition.
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Leeds United are mathematically safe from relegation.
Players do not usually post matchday graphics publicly on the morning of a game if they are expecting to play no part, which is why supporters quickly interpreted the story as a major positive sign.
After concerns initially grew following Friday’s training update, Leeds now appear to be heading into the Tottenham fixture with one of their most important defenders available after all.
That would represent an important boost for Farke as Leeds attempt to produce a strong performance away from home on Monday night.
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