Leeds United were without Liam Cooper for their latest Championship clash this weekend.
Marcelo Bielsa has suggested, in comments reported by Leeds Live, that Liam Cooper could have played in Leeds’ clash with Stoke City on Saturday, but was left out as he was not fully fit.
Cooper’s fitness has been a concern for a few days after Bielsa suggested ahead of the midweek game against Brentford that he was doubtful for the game against Thomas Frank’s side (via Leeds Live).
The Whites skipper would play in the 1-0 victory, but was not involved at the bet365 Stadium as Gaetano Berardi came in alongside Ben White at the heart of the defence.
It would be another clean sheet for the Whites as they ran out 3-0 winners. White was outstanding, while Berardi slotted in excellently. Nevertheless, Leeds supporters will likely be delighted with Bielsa’s brief update on Cooper following the win.
“He could have played today, but he wasn’t at 100 per cent,” he said, as reported by Leeds Live.
Cooper and White have formed a brilliant partnership in the opening weeks of the campaign, so it will be a real boost that he is clearly not set to be sidelined for long.
He will presumably not be risked when the two teams meet again in the Carabao Cup this coming week. But he looks set to be in contention for what is already looking set to be a crucial clash with Swansea City next weekend. Should the Swans beat Birmingham City today, they will be level on points with Bielsa’s men at the top of the table.
Leeds fans know all too well how dangerous it is to get carried away about anything until it is set in stone, but it would be a big statement if the Whites do win against Swansea. So having Cooper back will be a big plus for the league leaders.
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