Jesse Marsch has confirmed in his press conference that Pascal Struijk will miss Leeds United’s clash with Leicester City on Thursday after picking up a small injury.
Struijk has been one of the most lauded players in the squad so far this season. The 23-year-old has been a regular at left-back after Junior Firpo sustained an injury in pre-season.
Firpo has been edging closer and closer to full fitness. And it appears that it is good timing for Leeds as they have been dealt an injury blow ahead of the trip to the King Power Stadium.
Pascal Struijk sustains injury ahead of Leicester clash
Marsch started his press conference with his usual injury update. And unfortunately, Struijk has been added to the list of absentees – though it is not thought to be a serious problem.
“Pascal Struijk’s picked up a little bit of an injury and won’t be available for tomorrow. But we’re hopeful that by Sunday, he’ll be available again,” he said.
Firpo has a big point to prove ahead of his potential return to the starting lineup. He certainly did not have the best season during his first year at Elland Road.
It is fair to say that he improved as the campaign went on. And he was excellent in the opening pre-season game – albeit against Championship opposition.
It is going to be a big ask to expect Firpo to do well when he regains his place ahead of Struijk. Struijk has been superb in the early stages of the campaign. And actually, he held his own up against Bukayo Saka on Sunday.
Leeds really lack depth at left-back throughout the age groups. And the injury to Struijk has further highlighted that. Despite his performances, obviously he is not a natural in that position.
It would make a massive difference if Firpo now steps his game up – starting with Thursday.
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