‘Further evaluation’ – Leeds United’s injuries and estimated comeback dates with half the club out
Leeds United have moved up to fifth position in the Championship table, and manager Daniel Farke still has half of his squad to welcome back.
Farke made two changes to his starting lineup for Saturday’s match against Bristol City, the club’s final game before the international break, with Glen Kamara and Dan James replacing Luke Ayling and injury doubt Jaidon Anthony.
Farke said in his pre-match news conference that Anthony was 50-50 to play after rolling his ankle, but the Bournemouth loanee came off the bench and replaced opening goalscorer James as a 78th-minute replacement in the 2-1 victory.
Patrick Bamford has also returned to the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury, but Farke still had five players out for the weekend’s game against the Robins, and we’ll go over what has been stated about the ailments and when they are anticipated to return.
Willy Gnonto (ankle) first.
The expected return date is in October/November. Summary: Gnonto has been out since damaging his lateral ankle ligament during the first half of Hull City’s goalless draw on September 20. “I would say with Willy Gnonto and Djed Spence, everything is on track there,” Farke added. They’re doing well, but they won’t be ready for the international break.”
Jamie Shackleton (shoulder) is second.
The anticipated return date is unknown. Shackleton had been a regular in the squad until missing the home game against QPR, when Farke announced he had damaged a previously troublesome shoulder. Farke stated, “His shoulder is too painful, and we need to assess it further.” I’m hoping he’ll be available after the international break.” Photographer: Jess Hornby
3. Firpo Junior (hip)
The expected return date is October (after the international break). Firpo recovered from ruptured lateral ligaments in his knee but experienced hip difficulties after returning to exercise. This season, Firpo has yet to appear. “With Junior Firpo, yes, he will also just be back in training on the other side of the international break,” Farke said ahead of the QPR game. So he has no prospect of returning.”
Djed Spence (knee) 4
The expected return date is in October/November. Summary: Leeds announced on September 18 that Spence had injured his lateral collateral ligament, but that surgery was not required and that Spence would be able to return to play within eight weeks. “I would say with Willy Gnonto and Djed Spence, everything is on track there,” Farke added. They’re doing well, but they won’t be ready for the international break.”
