Marcelo Bielsa Leeds
MARCELO Bielsa rules out Patrick Bamford as he gives an update ahead of what could be a hugely depleted squad visiting St Mary’s. Leeds United will be without their star striker while Kalvin Phillips remains a doubt, after he withdrew from England’s international squad before the break. The boss confirmed it speaking ahead of the Saints match,
Marcelo Bielsa said: “Patrick Bamford won’t play. Kalvin Phillips has a chance of being able to do so. (On Phillips) we will decide today, tomorrow and Saturday.”
However, those aren’t the only limitations for the Argentine boss – Brazilian attacker Raphinha has been one of Leeds’ most influential players with three goals this season. But he is due to play for his country in World Cup qualifying against Uruguay, which kicks off late tonight or in the early hours of tomorrow morning depending on how you view it (1:30AM).
Marcelo Bielsa said: “There is no doubt that it’s a short turnaround (between the games). The options he has to participate in the game on Saturday depends on whether he plays this final game tonight, how many minutes he plays, how he finishes the game after participating in it. How efficient his rest in the next 36 hours is, considering that a third of those hours he will spend on a flight and if there is any risk that fatigue could cause injuries then we won’t risk it. There are so many aspects to consider that I can’t offer you any certainty either way.”
Robin Koch and Luke Ayling also remain injured and unavailable to Bielsa.
