Leeds United remain hopeful that Matthew Pennington will shake off an injury in time to feature against Cardiff City this weekend at Elland Road, as reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Thomas Christiansen failed to bolster his options in central defence yesterday, with Leeds’ backline looking stretched heading into a crucial period, as injuries and suspensions mount up at Elland Road.

Liam Cooper is currently serving a four-match ban, whilst Conor Shaughnessy, who lasted less than 10 minutes of Tuesday’s clash with Hull City in the Sky Bet Championship, joins Pennington on the sidelines.

Pontus Jansson finished that game as Leeds’ only available central defender, but with the Swedish defender moving just one caution away from a two-match ban, Christiansen could be faced with major problems in the coming weeks.

However, Leeds have hope that Pennington will be able to return to first-team action this weekend, when Leeds entertain Cardiff at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon.

Scans have shown Pennington has no serious injury, with Leeds keeping their fingers crossed that the on-loan Everton defender will be able to partner Jansson when Cardiff visit.

Leeds went through January without recording a victory, with Christiansen’s side sliding out of the top-six and four points adrift of the play-off zone.

The Verdict  

Christiansen will be worried about his defensive options heading into a crucial period, and if Pennington can feature on Saturday, it will be a huge boost for Leeds.

The 23-year-old has struggled for a regular chance at Leeds, but this period could present him with a chance to make an impression, if he can regain fitness.

The success Leeds have in the coming weeks could rest on whether Pennington gets himself fit.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!