The newest Leeds United news is that the centre-back is only weeks away from returning to fitness, but he may have a tough battle to re-enter the team.
Pascal Struijk, a Leeds United defender, is close to returning to fitness after missing the previous nine games due to an adductor injury.
The 24-year-old developed the condition after the Boxing Day loss to Preston North End and has since had treatment. Daniel Farke indicated before of last week’s game against Bristol City that he was doing individual training outdoors and planned to return “weeks, not months” later.
Prior to his injury, Struijk was a lock for one of the team’s centre-back positions. He held the captain’s armband in his final 12 Championship appearances.
However, his expected comeback in a few weeks will force Farke to make a decision. In Struijk’s absence, club captain Liam Cooper took over for the first two games but was sidelined due to a groin injury. This resulted in Ethan Ampadu being moved back and Ilia Gruev joining Glen Kamara in defensive midfield against Cardiff City.
Leeds won 3-0, and despite Cooper’s return to fitness, they’ve kept the same lineup. All three have performed admirably, with Leeds securing maximum points to maintain pressure on the top two Championship table spots.
Struijk’s absence for at least the next two of games means that, barring injury, Farke will likely stick with the same lineup. However, when the centre-back returns, he must decide whether to immediately rejoin the team.
The Leeds manager labeled the defender as a ‘crucial player’, although he may struggle to reintegrate into the club when he returns. He will face an even tougher challenge if current performances and results continue.
