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Could Leeds United’s defensive injuries lead to rare sighting of bizarre summer transfer Amadou Haidara?

General view inside the stadium before the game - Elland Road (Reuters)
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The Frenchman arrived in a shock deal in September.

Leeds United face something of a defensive quandary ahead of this week’s clash with Derby County.

Garry Monk’s side have Charlie Taylor out injured and Liam Cooper is a serious doubt for the clash – after picking up an injury against Cambridge United in the FA Cup this week. Meanwhile, star man Pontus Jansson picked up a tenth yellow card of the season in that clash, ruling him out of action as well.

So, could Leeds fans get a rare glimpse of their shock summer signing Amadou Haidara this weekend?

General view inside the stadium before the game - Elland RoadGeneral view inside the stadium before the game – Elland Road

Luke Ayling is likely to slot in at centre-back alongside Kyle Bartley but Leeds are then delving into the under-23s for players after that.

One such player is Haidara, who joined in a shock move back in September. The former Nantes youngster was left-field signing but has been playing for the under-23s recently.

With Leeds struggling at the back, it might very well be Haidara can make the squad.

Elland RoadElland Road

Of course, Monk has other options. It is not hard to see either Liam Bridcutt or Ronaldo Vieira slotting in at centre-back if need be and youngster Paul McKay featured regularly throughout pre-season.

In fact, in all likelihood it appears that Haidara would not get the call-up. He is not a regular starter for the under-23s and his bizarre transfer continues to baffle.

Here Leeds find themselves in something of a defensive crisis and a 23-year-old summer signing does not look a credible option.

But Leeds fans would certainly be fascinated if this lesser-spotted player suddenly found himself in danger of a cameo – but also fearful of what he might produce on the pitch.

Safe to say, it is not something they should worry about.