Kerry Mayodi
Both Liam Cooper and Kalvin Phillips could start against Southampton on Saturday, according to Jesse Marsch’s press conference on Thursday. Both players haven’t played since the start of December because of their injuries.
Early in December, in a 2-2 draw with Brentford, Cooper and Phillips both sustained long-term hamstring injuries. Bamford, too, was sidelined for a while, but he returned earlier this month. During the game against Wolves, he suffered an injury.
“Both are in contention to start. Both not fully 90 minutes fit, but really close. Don’t think we can start both of them because it becomes two subs. Spoken to both and they are both feeling good. Looking even better.”
On Saturday, Leeds will face Southampton at Elland Road, and Marsch has confirmed that both players are in contention to start, but it is unlikely that he will start both players, as it would require him to field two substitutes.
With the likes of Diego Llorente, Robin Koch, and Pascal Struijk all fit, Cooper has been outshone a bit. However, Cooper’s influence extends beyond the pitch.
Even though he may not be the best option at center back, it is critical that he participates. For the time being, Phillips should feature against Southampton.
