Despite having surgery only 14 days ago, a Leeds United player is in today’s matchday squad – Report

Despite having surgery only 14 days ago, a Leeds United player is in today’s matchday squad – Report

Pascal Struijk of Leeds United underwent hernia surgery earlier in November, but he appears to have recovered quickly and could be in the squad for tonight’s game against Rotherham.

Leeds take on Yorkshire opposition this evening as they make the trip to the New York Stadium to take on a Rotherham United side without a manager at present.

Injury concerns are still prominent in Daniel Farke’s side as he looks likely to have to make changes to the side that beat Plymouth Argyle prior to the international break.

Pascal Struijk has been updated.
Pascal Struijk had surgery prior to the international break to remove a hernia that had been bothering him in games prior to the Plymouth match, forcing him to play through pain in victories over Leicester City and others.

On November 10th, he confirmed the operation on Instagram:

Farke spoke about the Dutchman during his pre-match press conference to reveal that he could be back in the squad after training this week.

“We have world-class physio and rehab coaches, and I have to commend my medicine department for doing an outstanding job, but you also need players who work and are disciplined in their rehab training, nutrition, sleep, and recovery.” Pascal and Sam (Byram) are extremely professional in their work. It’s a nice little boost that they’re already back in team training, which I didn’t expect. We will not take any risks, but it is a testament to our medicine, sports science, and fitness departments, as well as the attitude of our players.

Will he be on the team tonight?
While Farke is unlikely to risk Struijk or Byram, Leeds Live has revealed today’s matchday squad, which includes both players:

“Meslier, Ayling, Byram, Ampadu, Cresswell, Struijk, Cooper, Firpo, Piroe, Kamara, Bamford, Shackelton, Summerville, Anthony, Klaesson, Rodon, James, Gray, Rutter*, Byram, Poveda, Darlow, Gnonto, Gruev, Gelhardt.”

*Rutter may be unable to travel.