‘That’s something I’ve missed…’ – Pundit reacts to Leeds surgery update from Elland Road
Paul Robinson left disappointed after hearing about Ilia Gruev's surgery for a new injury at Leeds United.
Graham Smyth reported on X [3 October] that Leeds United’s Ilia Gruev will be out for several months following an injury sustained against Norwich City, which now requires surgery.
After the news broke, Gruev shared a message from his hospital bed, reassuring Leeds fans that he “will be back soon.”
This comes as a major blow to the team, especially following Ethan Ampadu’s injury.
In an interview with MOT Leeds News, former player Paul Robinson said: “Losing both Ampadu and Gruev is a huge blow.
Ao Tanaka deserves his chance, and it was only a matter of time before he started. I expected him to play alongside Ampadu in midfield.
“Ampadu and Gruev being out simultaneously… I didn’t know Gruev had surgery. That’s a big loss.”
Leeds United now face a challenging situation with both Ampadu and Gruev sidelined.
This is a significant setback for manager Daniel Farke, who is working to get Leeds back to the Premier League after last season’s narrow play-off final loss to Southampton.
While Leeds has plenty of depth in attack, the midfield is their thinnest area.
Tanaka and Joe Rothwell started the match against Sunderland on 4 October, but Ampadu’s absence is felt not only due to his skill but also because he had been handed the captain’s armband.
Now, Leeds must find a new leader.
It’s unclear whether the club will dip into the free-agent market or wait for the January transfer window, but Farke is just one more injury or suspension away from a midfield crisis.
