Leeds United's Noah Okafor explains cautious Switzerland return after injury ahead of West Ham FA Cup tie | OneFootball

Leeds United's Noah Okafor has explained a cautious approach to his Switzerland return after a recent hamstring injury. The player said in a post that a no-risk plan was agreed as he sat out both friendlies.

Recalled to replace Filip Ugrinić, the 25-year-old ended a 17-month absence from the national set-up. Switzerland faced Germany and Norway, and Okafor was unused in both, missing the Norway squad as a precaution.

It was an enjoyable week back with the squad, with full commitment around training to support team-mates. There was a desire to play, yet the joint decision was not to take risks so soon after injury, with hopes of a swift return.

Leeds are likely to be relieved by the stance, with Okafor only just back after a month out and his one-v-one threat missed in recent weeks. He returned with 22 minutes in the 0-0 draw at Brentford.

Elsewhere, Dominic Calvert-Lewin played 32 minutes for England against Uruguay before heading back to his club. Daniel James and Ethan Ampadu were initially rested for Wales against Northern Ireland, then came on in the second half.

Brenden Aaronson got 11 minutes for the USA against Portugal, while Ao Tanaka appeared from the bench for Japan against England. Okafor could have a key part to play in Leeds' relegation fight and could feature in Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final at West Ham.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk