Leeds could be without Tom Pearce and Jamie Shackleton for the top-of-the-table clash against Middlesbrough on Friday.
Manager Marcelo Bielsa, talking in his pre-match press conference, admitted that both players were a major doubt for the clash, with Shackleton’s injury potentially more serious.
He said that Shackleton had an ankle injury that they would have to assess over time.
Bielsa on Pearce and Shackleton after knocks last night: "For Pearce it's not very important, it's very painful but just a kick. Shackleton has an ankle problem which we will see how this evolves. He is a tough player." Bielsa not sure if they will make Friday's game. #lufc
— Lee Sobot (@LeeSobotYEP) August 29, 2018
OPINION
The Leeds injuries are starting to mount up. Luckily, Bilesa also said that Liam Cooper could be fit to return on Friday and that Adam Forshaw would be back after the international break. That’s a timely boost and Leeds should be able to cope without Pearce and Shackleton on Friday. The chances are that they wouldn’t start anyway. With Cooper and Pontus Jansson back, Bielsa should revert to Barry Douglas and Luke Ayling on the flanks. Getting knocked out of the Carabao Cup could also be a blessing in disguise, although we’re sure that Bielsa won’t see it that way. Playing three games in a week is tough and although it gave an outlet for the younger players to get game-time, it also meant some senior players had to push themselves to the limit. If players like Pearce and Shackleton were ruled out and Leeds still had cup commitments, it would mean playing first-team players or reaching even further down into the Under-23s. Neither is a particularly ideal option. This way, Bielsa can focus on the Championship and he can get by with a few injuries.