We are now approaching the business end of the season and that term especially applies to Leeds United, who will be looking to challenge and finish as high as possible in the play-offs.

Manager Garry Monk, who arrived last summer, has more or less reached the goal of being a contender for promotion to the top-flight; something the club will be desperate for, having not seen Premier League football at Elland Road for the last 13 years.

Between now and when Leeds determine their future for the next campaign, Monk has a very difficult task on his hands in which players deserve to be wearing the famous Whites shirt or whether they are counting down the days until their departure.

I'm probably right in saying the boss has already drafted up possible transfer targets, where his team needs improving drastically if they are to go up.

Although it's not just about incomings, there will be first-team who are fighting for their lives but still can't impress the manager.

Here are TWO Leeds United players who are getting nowhere near the starting XI under Monk....

 

Luke Murphy

Luke Murphy was clearly never in the plans when Garry Monk arrived after featuring just once, which came in a EFL Cup victory over Luton, before switching Yorkshire for Burton in a loan move to get more game time.

The 27-year-old midfielder has made 14 appearances for the Brewers since transferring to the Pirelli in January, and has been a integral part of the squad there in their fight for survival in their first season in this division.

Murphy obviously isn't fancied by the boss and when he returns I can't see him getting anywhere near the starting XI, although his contract does expire this summer anyway.

 

Marcus Antonsson

The Swedish forward arrived at Elland Road last summer but has always played second fiddle to important and influential striker Chris Wood, almost always settling for a place on the bench.

Marcus Antonsson has played just 16 games in the Championship this season, with one goal to his tally as well, so his eye for the back of the net isn't as large as his fellow frontman.

As long as Garry Monk and Wood is at Leeds United then Antonsson will get nowhere near the starting XI and a seat on the bench is the most he'll get at the moment, despite nothing suggesting he's becoming aggravated by that.

Leeds United fans, what's your opinion? Will these two get anywhere near the starting eleven? Is anyone else in this situation? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!