Leeds United make the trip over to Burnley on Saturday afternoon looking for a crucial three points against a relegation rival.
It’s been a mixed start for the three promoted teams so far. Sunderland have taken all the media attention for their bright start, Leeds have begun very encouragingly, while Burnley have struggled.
The Clarets, to be fair, have faced a tough start, but not much tougher than United’s. This weekend’s clash at Turf Moor looks to be a perfect barometer for both sides and their hopes of staying in the Premier League.
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Leeds United injury news v Burnley confirmed – updates on Lucas Perri, Willy Gnonto
Daniel Farke was hoping that the international break came at the ideal time for some of his squad. He had three ruled out at home to Spurs earlier this month.
Lucas Perri has been absent with a quad strain since the 0-0 draw with Newcastle in August. Willy Gnonto has missed the last three with a calf problem. Meanwhile, Dan James suffered an ankle injury that was said to ruled him out for four-to-six weeks.
Leeds United have three injury issues for Daniel Farke to address in his latest team news update. (REUTERS/Jaimi Joy)
Speaking ahead of United’s trip to Turf Moor on Saturday, Farke confirmed “good news” on Perri, returning to training to build up his fitness ahead of a hopeful return soon.
As for Gnonto, he won’t be available despite his calf issue being resolved. That’s because he underwent a minor procedure to resolve a hernia and has been recovering since.
Elsewhere, Farke briefly noted an adductor problem for Noah Okafor over the break that has been monitored. Dan James, though, could miraculously be on the bench this weekend despite his initial prognosis.
Last chance saloon for Brenden Aaronson as he gets another injury lifeline at Leeds United
This prolonged absence for Gnonto and James means the door remains wide open for Brenden Aaronson to start on the right-wing.
His performances have been encouraging in some respects. But, I have been left wanting more from him, which is a running theme unfortunately.
Yes, he should have had an assist against Bournemouth with Dominic Calvert-Lewin missing a big chance from close range. On top of that, his effort was parried to Okafor for the equaliser against Spurs, but that’s about it for chance creation.
Aaronson, though, has another opportunity against Burnley with his place in the starting lineup looking largely assured outside of Jack Harrison maybe getting the nod.
Facing a compact low block gives the American a tough task to produce the goods. With Gnonto still out and surely back soon, he’s running out of opportunities to keep his place.
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