Paul Heckingbottom has revealed that Andy Lonergan has suffered a setback in training, with the Leeds United goalkeeper now set to see a specialist about the neck injury that is keeping him sidelined.  

In a report by Leeds Live, Heckingbottom has been quoted discussing Lonergan’s injury, with the goalkeeper missing from Leeds’ matchday squad in recent weeks.

Lonergan has been struggling with a neck injury but was set to be in contention at the Madejski Stadium against Reading on Saturday afternoon. However, the 34-year-old missed the contest, with Heckingbottom confirming afterwards that the goalkeeper had suffered a setback:

“He trained. He got snowed in actually, on what day?

“I've forgotten my days actually. He got snowed in Thursday so didn't make it. He was going to train.

“He trained Friday, but had a reaction again in his neck, so he's going to see a specialist for that as it's something we need to put right now.”

Lonergan has provided back-up for Felix Wiedwald for most of the season, however, in Leeds’ last two fixtures Heckingbottom has put faith in Bailey Peacock-Farrell, the club’s 21-year-old goalkeeper.

Peacock-Farrell impressed despite the 3-0 defeat to Wolves last week, before adding to that performance with another good display against Reading on Saturday afternoon.

The youngster pulled off a string of good saves, helping Leeds record a 2-2 draw at the Madejski Stadium.

The 21-year-old will expect to retain his place in the starting XI this coming weekend, when Leeds welcome Sheffield Wednesday to Elland Road for a Yorkshire derby.

The Verdict  

Lonergan’s injury is obviously a blow for Heckingbottom, who will want to see what the veteran goalkeeper can offer between now and the end of the season.

However, Peacock-Farrell has been good since his introduction in the starting XI, and the goalkeeper has a strong grip on the jersey ahead of the nine-match run-in.

It would be a surprise to see Lonergan challenging Peacock-Farrell for a start even if he was fit.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!