Leeds United talisman Pablo Hernandez has been confirmed as available by Marcelo Bielsa ahead of the weekend’s clash with Sheffield Wednesday.

The Whites have been no stranger to injury problems this season, just like many of their Championship rivals, with several first-team players facing spells on the sidelines since the start of the season.

Spanish playmaker Pablo Hernandez has been one of Leeds’ most influential players since arriving back in 2016 and Marcelo Bielsa’s arrival at the club has only made that more pertinent. Last season, Hernandez hit double figures for both goals and assist and he was aiming to continue that this term, however, injury issues have hampered his momentum. 

Having suffered a muscular injury in the draw to Derby County in September, Hernandez spent the next two months out before coming back in November. He then had a solid run in the side and helped the Whites to a sensational seven-game winning streak, before coming off injured against Fulham after just three minutes.

Hernandez has missed the last four games as the Whites stumble to keep their healthy lead over third place at nine points. Up next is the visit of Sheffield Wednesday who Leeds held on against for a 0-0 draw, back in October at Hillsborough.

Speaking to @LUFC in his pre-match press conference, Marcelo Bielsa confirmed Hernandez’s return, stating: "Pablo [Hernandez] and Jamie [Shackleton] are both available."

Can you guess who wears these Leeds United squad numbers?

The Verdict

This is huge news for the Whites ahead of a very tough home game against the Owls. There is no doubting that Hernandez’s absence has seen Leeds lose a lot of their creativity in the final third, along with losing control in midfield, seeing possession much more difficult to retain.

Bielsa has tended not to risk players immediately after returning from injury and this might well be the case for the Spaniard, but his return is a huge boost to the squad.