Eight players could miss Leeds United vs Newcastle as Ilia Gruev steps up comeback | OneFootball

According to Leeds Live, Daniel Farke has an injury boost before Leeds conclude gameweek four at Elland Road against Newcastle, although up to eight players could still be absent.

The boost involves Ilia Gruev, sidelined since mid-April with a knee problem. He played 85 minutes for the Under-21s in a 4-4 draw with Middlesbrough on Sunday, setting up a goal. Given the 48-hour turnaround, he will not feature for the first team, though it marks a key step in his recovery.

Farke said last week it seemed no new fitness issues had emerged. Joe Rodon faces months out after a hamstring injury in the draw with Brighton. Mateo Joseph remains a long-term absentee following a serious knee injury in April while on loan at Mallorca.

For Newcastle, Matthias Jaissle could be without up to five players. Amar Dedic, forced off at half-time of last Tuesday's Carabao Cup win over Millwall with hamstring tightness, was later described by Jaissle as not looking too serious, though he kept details private. With the longer turnaround, Dedic could be involved or he may sit out.

Ewen Jaouen twisted an ankle in training and missed the Millwall tie, so he could remain unavailable. There is no doubt over the absences of Joelinton, Dan Burn and Will Osula, who are targeting returns after the upcoming international break. Jaissle also dismissed rumours of a lengthy lay-off for Osula.

Source: Leeds Live

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