Pontus Jansson is back in contention for Leeds United’s trip to Cardiff City in the Sky Bet Championship this evening, reports the Yorkshire Evening Post. Â
Jansson picked up a muscular injury in Leeds’ defeat to Millwall earlier this month, which forced him to miss the Carabao Cup clash with Burnley and Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town in the Championship.
The Swedish defender is now set for a return to action against Cardiff this evening, when Leeds will be looking to maintain their lead at the top of the Championship table.
Thomas Christiansen has admitted Jansson could have made the squad for the clash with Ipswich on Saturday, but he opted to leave the 26-year-old out, he said: “It was because he had had a muscle problem and I didn’t want to risk.
“He was able to be in the squad but my decision was to leave him out. He was out because of an injury.â€
Jansson has travelled with Leeds to Cardiff, and his return will strengthen Christiansen’s hand ahead of a massive test of the Whites’ promotion credentials in Wales this evening.
Leeds currently top the Championship table, but are level on 20 points with tonight’s opponents, Cardiff.
Tonight’s clash with Cardiff is the first of a difficult week away from Elland Road for Leeds, with Christiansen’s side travelling to South Yorkshire on Sunday afternoon for a clash with Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough.
The Verdict
Jansson’s return will be a huge boost for Leeds, with the Swedish defender clearly missed on Saturday, as Christiansen’s side conceded two goals for the first time in a match since the opening day of the season.
It would be a surprise if Jansson is not drafted straight back into the starting XI this evening, with the defender likely to partner Liam Cooper at centre-back for Leeds’ toughest test of the Championship season so far.
Leeds face a difficult task against Cardiff tonight, and Jansson will have to be at his best if they are to pick up three points.
Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!