Leeds United’s chances of arresting their current slide in form by picking up a result against Fulham this Saturday have received a boost following an injury update provided by Javi Gracia today.
Leeds have struggled defensively in recent times – something reflected in the fact that they have conceded 11 goals in their last 2 matches.
For many of the Whites faithful, it is the loss of defender Max Wober due to an injury sustained whilst representing Austria during the March international break that has triggered such a defensive collapse.
Wober – signed from Red Bull Salzburg in January – has impressed massively since joining the West Yorkshire side. His combination of technical ability and on-field leadership qualities demonstrated since his arrival have allowed him to establish himself as a mainstay in the Leeds XI.
Now, it appears as if the Austrian international may be set to return to action in Leeds’ weekend trip to London.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference (per Yorkshire Evening Post) Gracia confirmed that Wober was “available” for Monday’s clash with Liverpool – and is now in a “better condition” after having more time to recover since.
“He was injured the last two weeks, for the last game he was available but only trained one or two days and I think now he is in a better condition to help the team and we will decide,” Gracia said.
Another player who suffered injury during the international break was forward Wilfried Gnonto, but he is now completely “ready” to feature after Gracia initially tried to protect him following his return.
“Gnonto is ready, he had a little issue, he had some problems but now he is ready, he is training the last week. In the beginning when he came back I tried to protect a bit but now he is available and ready.”
The update was not entirely positive, however. Striker Patrick Bamford – who was rumoured to be playing with a slight knock against Crystal Palace – was confirmed as having picked up a calf injury after being absent from Gracia’s matchday squad against Liverpool on Monday.
“Calf. We have to wait until the end, he is training but at this moment I don’t know if he will be ready,” Gracia said when asked about Bamford’s condition.
Wober and Gnonto both being available will act as a boost to a Leeds side who approach Saturday’s game sitting 16th in the Premier League table, just two points above the relegation zone.
