Opponent watch: Leeds could be without several key players vs Liverpool this weekend

Team News: Leeds have key players missing due to injuries and suspension for weekend’s clash against Liverpool

According to Leeds Live, Leeds United are expected to miss out on a few key players against Liverpool for the Premier League fixture this weekend due to injuries and suspensions.

Leeds will be without their star man Raphinha, who has been given a five-day ban by FIFA. Several Premier League clubs, including Leeds, did not release their Brazilian players for international duty. They would miss his presence in the attacking third as he has been a key player for the team in recent times.

So far, the ex-Rennes forward has struck a single goal in their opening three fixtures. Leeds are also expected to be without Robin Koch. The German defender has struggled with fitness after a pubis injury and is set to miss out against Liverpool. Marcelo Bielsa, giving an update on the player’s injury, said:

“He is evolving but is not completely healthy just yet.”

Junior Firpo missed the game against Burnely as he tested positive for Covid-19 but is expected to be available for the game on Sunday. The Brazilian, after his move from Barcelona, appeared twice in the Premier League and will be hoping to make an impact on Sunday.

Stuart Dallas, on the other hand, is a doubt for this weekend. The 30-year old versatile midfielder pulled out of the Northern Ireland squad citing personal reasons. Dallas has been involved in all the three opening games for Leeds in the Premier League and his absence could be felt against Liverpool this weekend.

The Reds themselves have key players missing. The Brazilian trio of Firmino, Alisson & Fabinho are ruled out due to the ban imposed on them by FIFA. James Milner is expected to miss a return to the home town of Leeds due to injury. However, Liverpool do have Virgil van Dijk back from a long term injury, which will be a major boost to them.

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Leeds faced Liverpool last time in a thrilling 1-1 encounter at Elland Road. Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp will be hoping to get a positive result against a tough opponent in Marcelo Bielsa’s side as they look to win just their second Premier League title since the German took charge.