Pontus Jansson is definitely out of Leeds United’s clash with Reading tomorrow, but may also miss Sheffield United at the weekend.
Marcelo Bielsa has told a press conference via The Yorkshire Evening Post that tomorrow’s visit of Reading comes too soon for Pontus Jansson, who may also miss Sheffield United.
The Sweden centre-back pulled out of international duty earlier this month with a foot injury and subsequently missed Saturday’s 2-0 win over Bristol City at Elland Road.
Jansson, who suffered the injury in the 4-1 demolition by West Brom, is still missing and won’t play a part when the Royals visit West Yorkshire.
Leeds, who sit third in the Championship, have an even bigger game this weekend when Bielsa’s side visit promotion rivals Sheffield United, who sit two points behind in fifth.
And the Argentine coach isn’t sure that the 27-year-old will be back for that one either.
“Jansson won’t be available and Bailey can be a starter tomorrow,” Bielsa told The YEP.
“At the beginning, he [Jansson] was supposed to be available for last Saturday and then tomorrow but it was not the case and that’s why I would like to be cautious before saying he can play next Saturday.”
Here is how Leeds fans reacted to Bielsa’s comments:
Aapo Halme made his Leeds debut in the win over Bristol City and although the Finnish youngster didn’t put a foot wrong, it wasn’t exactly a difficult test.
Lee Johnson’s side fashioned one shot on target, which was illustrative of the Robins’ lack of attacking threat this past weekend.
It might not be a tougher test for Halme tomorrow, but Saturday’s trip to the Blades most certainly will be.
The 20-year-old might be brilliant in the future, but for now he remains very raw and Jansson’s inclusion at Bramall Lane could be vital.
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