Liam Cooper is set to return to action for Leeds United in the clash against Fulham on Saturday, according to MOT Leeds News.
Following an interview with the Whites’ physio, Rob Price, the United news website explained that he will be back in contention this weekend if he does not suffer a setback this week (as per MOT Leeds News).
Three games without the skipper
The £5.4-million rated man has been missing for Marco Bielsa’s side for the previous three games after suffering a calf injury after the 4-0 victory over Middlesbrough (as per Leeds Live).
Having missed the previous three games, the Scotsman’s number of games absent has risen to seven for the season having suffered a couple of previous injuries this term (as per Transfermarkt).
Indeed, Cooper’s return could be considered a huge boost to Bielsa’s side as well, as he has proven to be a vital component to the Argentine’s well-oiled machine.
According to data collected by analysts WhoScored, the 28-year-old has managed to achieve an average of 1.3 tackles per game, 1.5 interceptions and 2.6 clearances in his 15 Championship appearances so far.
Leeds conceded seven goals in 15 Championship appearances with Cooper in the side and have conceded five goals in just seven Championship games without him, so his absence is pretty clear.
Did Leeds United look defensively frail against Cardiff City without Liam Cooper?Yes, we would have won with him
No, that was not the problem
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TiF Tactics – Who will Cooper replace if fit?
Should Cooper be fit enough to be reinstated to Bielsa’s side for the trip to Craven Cottage, then it seems likely that the Whites will revert to the system used prior to his injury.
In Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Cardiff City, some defensive frailties were exposed in the 4-1-4-1 system that was used, having been cruising at 3-0 up before letting the lead slip (as per Sky Sports).
Therefore, a move back to the 3-3-3-1 starting formation that United have become accustomed to, with Cooper alongside Luke Ayling and Ben White in a three-man back line, would suit the Elland Road club (as per Sky Sports).