Three Leeds United Midfielders Called Up for International Duty Amid Ongoing Injury Crisis
Leeds United Face Midfield Crisis with Ampadu and Gruev Injured, as International Break Offers No Relief for Farke's Squad
Leeds United will face Sunderland tomorrow in a highly anticipated Championship clash, seeking revenge after the Black Cats were one of the few teams to avoid defeat against Daniel Farke’s side last season.
This time, however, Leeds will face a different challenge, as Sunderland currently sit atop the table while Leeds deal with a number of injuries.
Leeds Team News: Ilia Gruev’s Knee Injury
Leeds have already been hit hard by injuries. Ethan Ampadu is sidelined until January with a knee issue, and Max Wöber has also undergone knee surgery.
The latest concern is Ilia Gruev, who suffered discomfort in his knee during the match against Norwich City, just as Josh Sargent stepped up to take a penalty. Gruev was substituted shortly afterward.
Farke confirmed on Wednesday that Gruev has sustained a knee injury, though the results of his scan are still pending.
This leaves his availability for the rest of 2024 in doubt, much like Ampadu.
International Call-Ups: Three More Leeds Midfielders Away
Farke will be hoping the upcoming international break provides his squad with some much-needed recovery time before they host Sheffield United.
However, Leeds’ midfield will be stretched thin as several players head off for international duty.
Brenden Aaronson will travel to North America for USMNT duty under new manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Meanwhile, youth midfielder Charlie Crew has been called up to the Wales U21 squad for their European Championship qualifier, and Ao Tanaka will rejoin the Japan national team, meaning he will cover significant air miles during the break.
Though the international break might help some injured players like Manor Solomon, Dan James, and Isaac Schmidt recover, it presents its own challenges.
Players on national duty will be playing two games across Europe and beyond, which could hinder their fitness.
To make matters worse, Leeds play on the first Friday following the break, adding further concern for Farke regarding the shape of his squad.
