Leeds United caretaker manager Michael Skubala has provided an injury update in his pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s clash with Everton this Saturday.
Firstly, the good news. Defender Pascal Struijk, forced off the pitch during the Whites’ first match with rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford last Wednesday, is back in training. Concussion substitution protocols forced the Dutchman to miss the return fixture at Elland Road on Sunday – but it appears as if he is now available for selection.
Now, the not so good news. The condition of Captain Liam Cooper and midfielder Marc Roca – who missed both clashes in the Manchester United double header last week – has been described as “touch and go” by Skubala.
Luis Sinisterra, who like Struijk was forced off early at Old Trafford due to injury, was described by the caretaker boss as being “further behind” Cooper and Roca in terms of recovery.
Leeds’ long-term absentees, including striker Rodrigo, midfielders Adam Forshaw and Archie Gray and the talismanic Stuart Dallas are all still recovering from their respective injuries.
“We still have the long-term ones. Pascal is back training,” said Skubala (as per Leeds Live).
“Cooper and Roca are touch and go and not far. We don’t want to take risks. Sonny Perkins is back on the pitch. We’re slowly getting strength back. Sinisterra is on his way back, but further back than Marc and Liam.”
Leeds travel to Goodison park 17th place in the Premier League table, one point above their opponents who sit in 18th.
