Thomas Christiansen is expecting Leeds United to have Matthew Pennington, Liam Cooper and Pontus Jansson available for the weekend, reports the Yorkshire Evening Postâs, Phil Hay. Â
Speaking after Leedsâ Carabao Cup victory over Burnley, Christiansen confirmed that the trio could be available for Saturdayâs visit of Ipswich Town.
Leeds were forced to pair Luke Ayling, who is a right-back, alongside Conor Shaughnessy in central defence against Burnley last night, with Christiansen seriously short of defensive options.
Pennington has been missing since the opening day of the season, whilst both Cooper and Jansson have been struggling with injuries in recent weeks.
Cooper missed last Saturdayâs defeat to Millwall, whilst Jansson was also forced from the field late in that game with an injury, which ruled him out of Tuesdayâs trip to Turf Moor.
Despite a makeshift centre-back pairing of Ayling and Shaughnessy, Leeds overcame Tuesday's challenge against Premier League opposition, with the duo impressing against the likes of Ashley Barnes, Sam Vokes and Chris Wood.
Hadi Sacko and Pablo Hernandez twice gave Leeds the lead at Turf Moor, but Christiansen watched on as Burnley twice pegged them back to send the game to extra time and then penalties.
Leeds were eventual 5-3 winners in the shoot-out, and now turn their attention to Saturdayâs clash with Ipswich Town, where they will be looking to maintain their place at the top of the Championship table.
The Verdict
Leedsâ supporters will be delighted with this update, particularly with the potential return of Cooper and Jansson, who have been exceptional in the clubâs fast start to the season.
Penningtonâs return is also a boost, with the on-loan Everton defender bringing some much-needed depth to a key area.
However, Christiansen will not want to rush the trio back, and Tuesdayâs victory over Burnley will give Christiansen full confidence that Ayling and Shaughnessy have enough to step in.
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