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Marcelo Bielsa gives injury update on three Leeds players after Luton draw

Will Butcher

Wed 1 July 2020 7:20, UK

Marcelo Bielsa has given an injury update during his post-match Luton Town press conference – – after Leeds’ 1-1 draw with the Hatters, confirming Stuart Dallas will miss Saturday’s match against Blackburn.

Leeds were somewhat lacklustre against a well-organised Luton as Harry Cornick gave the rock-bottom Championship side the lead at the start of the second half – expertly curling an effort into the top corner.

Stuart Dallas equalised after Gjanni Alioski’s low cross found the left-footer eight yards out. Leeds did have chances, but Patrick Bamford and Helder Costa complained that the glare of the Elland Road lights put them off.

The Whites had to settle for a point, but perhaps more damaging – Bielsa ruled out £1.3m signing Dallas ahead of Saturday. The Argentine stated that they will monitor Cooper and Hernandez.

Cooper and Dallas at Barnsley earlier this season. (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)

On Dallas, Bielsa said: “He feels something in the lower back/glutes, but don’t think he’s going to play in the next match.” On Cooper: “It’s a kick, very painful in the side, but don’t think it’s a heavy injury.”

Discussing whether Hernandez could get 90 minutes on Saturday, Bielsa said: “We are going to analyse this. He played less than the last match today. See how he feels from now to Saturday. After that we are going to decide.”

TBR’s view – Leeds stuttering, but still in the driving seat

With six games to go, the Whites still sit comfortably ahead of second-placed West Bromwich Albion who have struggled since the restart. The Baggies are now just two in front of Brentford, but do have a game in hand.

The Baggies are certainly struggling with the pressure, while Leeds are stuttering. But the Whites arguably only need three wins to gain a place in the top two, with six between themselves and the Bees.

Three wins would mean Brentford would have to win five of their six just get onto level points with Leeds. Still in the driving seat, Leeds need one final push to get over the line.