Daniel Farke named Pascal Struijk as Leeds United’s biggest injury doubt heading into the match with Coventry City at Elland Road.
Struijk is said to have been suffering with some adductor problems since Leeds‘ 2-0 win at Cardiff City last weekend, which has forced him to miss some training sessions.
Junior Firpo and Patrick Bamford have also been managed this week, but it was Struijk who Farke claimed is Leeds’ biggest question mark.
Considering how seamlessly he has slotted in since his five-month injury lay-off, Struijk’s absence would be very hard felt against a side who are very physical in attack.
Manor Solomon, Dan James and Max Wober are the only three players who are definitely set to miss out. There is hope Solomon will be available against either Norwich City or Sunderland.
Farke makes Struijk decision for Leeds vs Coventry
Should Farke opt against naming Struijk in the side, it would likely see a major reshuffle both in Leeds’ midfield and defence.
Even after Farke’s praise for youngster James Debayo, Ethan Ampadu would almost certainly drop into defence, potentially paving way for Ao Tanaka to make his first Leeds start.
However, despite Farke‘s comments that Struijk has been unable to train this week, he was actually spotted in Leeds’ latest inside training video.
And now according to Leeds Live, Struijk has actually been included in Farke’s squad to face Coventry, in what would be a major boost.
Struijk’s inclusion is said to have been dependant on him coming through Friday’s session without any issues.
If reports are true that Struijk will indeed feature against Coventry, then it would appear he has come through training unscathed and without any issues.
Struijk vs Rodon Championship 24/25 season stats
In Struijk and Joe Rodon, Leeds seem to have found one of, if not the best partnership in the Championship.
The two complement each other perfectly and there was a reason Rodon said earlier this season he is delighted to be playing with Struijk again.
Struijk is a more aggressive defender when it comes to winning the ball early, while Rodon’s recovery pace is perfect for covering behind him. The stats prove it.
