‘He can play’: Bielsa says he could use 25-year-old Leeds man in midfield now Phillips is out

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Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has suggested to Leeds Live that he could utilise Robin Koch as a defensive midfielder when he returns from injury.

The return of Koch?

Koch has been out for Leeds since the very first game of the season with injury.

The German international has struggled badly for fitness, but now seems to be on the verge of a comeback.

Koch’s return should see Leeds tighten up at the back – but Bielsa suggests that he may not be used solely in defence.

With Kalvin Phillips now sidelined, Leeds’ options in their midfield are depleted.

And Bielsa has suggested that Koch may well be used in defensive midfield, while Phillips is out.  

“He can play as a centre-back or defensive midfielder,” he said.

“He’s been out for a long time so the prep has been demanding. We think his form needs competition. In case we need him quicker, we would analyse the possibility of calling him up.

“Three conditions: healthy, fit physically and fine technically. After competitive rhythm, he gets it in the U23 games.

“Forshaw has been a presence that has given fortitude to the team, Pascal also in that position, I also think Koch can be an excellent defensive midfielder. In that sense, I try to develop what these players can contribute.”

Back to the middle?

Now, Koch has played in midfield for Leeds before, but his best form has always come in defence.

However, it may just be a question of needs must for Bielsa right now.

Leeds have suffered badly with injuries this term and it has heavily impacted on their form.

Leeds have pulled away from the relegation zone of late, but they still sit in 15th place and will need wins in their upcoming games to feel entirely confident that they won’t be drawn into a relegation battle.