Leeds United's Noah Okafor breaks silence on injury absence ahead of West Ham FA Cup clash | OneFootball

Leeds United winger Noah Okafor took a cautious approach on his Switzerland return after a recent hamstring lay-off, sitting out friendlies against Germany and Norway. The 25-year-old had only just resumed club action, prompting a risk-averse plan during the camp.

The player said in a post that the week back with the national team was enjoyable, he worked hard in training to support the squad, and, so soon after injury, a joint decision was made not to take risks.

Okafor had been drafted in to replace injured compatriot Filip Ugrinić, ending a 17-month absence from international football. He was not used against Germany. He was then omitted from the Norway squad as medical and coaching staff managed minutes for players returning from injuries, including Granit Xhaka.

The winger recently returned from a month out, playing the final 22 minutes of Leeds’ 0-0 draw at Brentford. The Swiss camp’s stance appeared precautionary to avoid overworking him immediately.

Leeds will welcome that prudence, with his one-v-one threat having been missed in recent weeks. The Swiss forward is hoped to have a key role in the Premier League relegation battle and could feature in the FA Cup quarter-final against West Ham on Sunday.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk