Leeds United are edging closer to a long-awaited return to the Premier League and under Marcelo Bielsa, they are looking like they are destined for the top flight. 

Bielsa has had his fair share of injuries to deal with this season, but one of his key players is set to return to the first-team picture in the near future.

Jack Clarke was rushed to hospital in the later stages of Leeds' draw with Middlesbrough earlier this season and has been edged back into action on his return.

Speaking in a pre-match press conference ahead of the game (quotes sourced from Leeds Live, 12:45pm), Marcelo Bielsa revealed that Clarke is due to feature for the under 23's today.

"He is going to play today.

"We’ll see how he assimilates the game and I’ll take a decision after that."

The under 23's side take on Fulham this evening in the Premier League Cup last 16 clash, and Leeds fans will be hoping that Clarke will get through the game unscathed.

Bielsa will be keen to have Clarke available at the earliest of opportunities, so that he can play his part in Leeds' promotion bid this season.

Clarke had shown glimpses of his quality before he was ruled out through illness and he will be hoping to pick up where he left off when he does return to the side.

It's sure to be a season-defining game for Leeds this weekend, and a win would surely put them in the strongest possible positions as they challenge Norwich City for the Championship title.

The Verdict: 

This is a promising update.

Clarke has really impressed me this season and he is an exciting talent that Bielsa can definitely get the best out of in the future.

The sooner he's back to full fitness, the better.