Marcelo Bielsa's philosophy of utilising a streamlined playing squad at Leeds United is being severely tested, as he copes with the loss of some key players due to injury and suspension.

The latest to be added to the list is Luke Ayling who was sent off following a second yellow card in the 1-1 draw with promotion rivals Brentford at the weekend.

So how big a blow is the loss of Ayling for their next match with Blackburn?

We discuss.....

Jay Taylor

It’s a huge blow, he has been one of their most consistent players this season so far.

Possibly without Barry Douglas on the other flank, too, it could be a weakened Leeds side, even more, when they face Blackburn and that will please Tony Mowbray.

There are two weeks for injured stars to be fit for the next match but without Luke Ayling, they lose a leader on the pitch and a reliable member of the starting XI.

Gary Hutchinson

Yes, it is.

Leeds are suffering badly from injuries and suspensions and the like.

They’ve a small squad as it is and if players keep dropping like flies, it is going to affect them badly.

George Dagless

Not as big as it might have been at other times.

Ayling is a good right-back but in recent weeks his form has dipped a little and mistakes have crept in.

He's now got a couple of weeks to rest from matches and work hard in training so it could actually prove a blessing in disguise.

Jacob Potter

Ayling has been ever-present in the Leeds side this season, and it’s a huge blow to Bielsa’s side for their match against Blackburn.

But it does give Bielsa the chance to give youngster Tom Pearce a chance in the squad to prove himself.