‘As close to 100% as I’ve seen’: Marsch hints one Leeds player could make first PL outing this season v Villa

Fri 30 September 2022 18:15, UK Updated Fri 30 September 2022 21:06, UK

Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch has hinted that Liam Cooper could make his first Premier League appearance of the season this weekend.

The Whites captain endured a difficult summer following a freak Achilles injury he sustained in pre-season.

Cooper sat out of all five of Leeds’ pre-season friendly games and missed out on a significant amount of training.

Marsch opted not to rush the 31-year-old back into action, and he’s yet to play in the league this term.

Cooper’s first appearance of the season came in the Carabao Cup win over Barnsley in August.

Leeds then saw two league games postponed following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

However, Cooper still got more minutes under his belt ahead of the international break.

He played the full 90 minutes and scored for Leeds Under-21s in their Premier League 2 win over Southampton’s U21s.

Now, ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Aston Villa at Elland Road, Marsch was able to provide good news on Cooper.

Indeed, the Leeds boss also shared a positive update on Luke Ayling and Junior Firpo.

“We have Coops, Luke, Junior all back,” quote Marsch as saying.

“Those guys featured when healthy almost every time last year. All three a big boost to our team.

“I cannot make a wrong decision at RB. Luke did very well against Brentford.

“Tough decision, but both will be ready, Junior fitter and healthier, big boost.

“Coops as close to 100 as I have seen him. Options there.”

Cooper back at the perfect time for Leeds – TBR View

Diego Llorente’s place in the Leeds starting XI looks under threat.

The 29-year-old wasn’t particularly great against Brighton and Brentford.

And with Cooper coming through that U21s game unscathed, he’ll surely be knocking on Marsch’s door.

Perfect opportunity for player and manager alike to feature against Villa.