Leeds United goalkeeper Kiko Casilla has recently been charged by the FA for using insulting/abusive words to an opponent, which is believed to be Charlton's Jonathan Leko. 

The Athletic's Phil Hay stated that Casilla could be facing a minimum ban of six matches if he is found guilty of the charge, with the shot-stopper likely to appeal the charge. 

Leeds have since released a statement over the incident, and revealed that the Spaniard will remain available for selection until a verdict is reached.

Speaking in an interview on talkSPORT, Darren Bent admitted that he was surprised to see Leeds keep Casilla in and around the first team despite this recent charge from the FA.

"I'm really surprised Leeds have decided to stick with him while this is going on."

It remains to be seen as to whether Casilla will be involved for Leeds' next match, as the Whites look to build on their impressive showing against QPR on Saturday.

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Leeds are next in action this weekend when they take on Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road, in a game where they'll be confident of keeping the pressure on league leaders West Brom with a positive result.

Marcelo Bielsa will be hoping that this Casilla incident doesn't derail their promotion bid too much, but it seems likely that the Leeds boss will have to call on Illan Meslier for the hectic festive period if Casilla is found guilty of the charge.

The Verdict: 

This is a really difficult one for Leeds.

I understand that he's somewhat 'innocent until proven guilty', but the fact that he's already been charged by the FA will hint that he could be hit with a lengthy ban here.

It's a shame because it'll undo all of the impressive performances that Casilla has shown so far this season, and it'll be interesting to see how Leeds cope if he is banned.

I wouldn't be starting him whilst this incident is going on to be honest as I think his mind will be elsewhere.