Jack Clarke will continue to step up his recovery with Leeds United’s under-23s tonight, with Marcelo Bielsa revealing then they will take the decision whether he plays again later in the week.  

Leeds have been without Clarke for over a month now after the winger became unwell during a 1-1 draw with Middlesbrough, having been substituted at half-time.

The 18-year-old was then taken to hospital before missing training following the illness.

Now, he’s back in and amongst Leeds’ senior squad, with Bielsa confirming to Leeds Live that Clarke will play tonight against Charlton Athletic’s 23s, but they will wait to see if he’s involved against Fulham on Thursday.

“He will play in the one today,” Bielsa stated. “And then we’ll see how he feels and see if he plays on Thursday.”

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Despite the absence of Clarke, Leeds are on a good run of form at the moment, having won four of their last five Championship fixtures.

Bielsa oversaw a 1-0 win over Bristol City on Saturday, with Leeds responding to Norwich and Sheffield United’s victories.

Leeds face Reading at the Madejski Stadium tomorrow evening, with Bielsa’s side then welcoming Sheffield United on Saturday lunchtime.

The Verdict

Bielsa will know the importance of managing Clarke’s return carefully.

He’s a young player who will have had a real scare during that Middlesbrough game - the player’s confidence might not be the same when he returns and Leeds need to recognise that.

You can’t ask him to do too much.

Thoughts? Let us know!