Marcelo Bielsa is holding his cards close to his chest when it comes to the re-introduction of Jack Clarke to the Leeds first team.

The attacker was taken ill last month in the fixture at the Riverside against Middlesbrough and having returned to training a couple of weeks ago, finally featured for the development squad this past Monday.

The 19-year-old starred in the 4-0 win over Charlton Athletic’s U23 side at Elland Road – and could play again this Thursday in a cup tie for the academy side.

That is, however, with a view to being involved this weekend in what promises to be an epic encounter against Sheffield United at Elland Road.

Bielsa spoke after Leeds’ impressive 3-0 win over struggling Reading last night.

The head coach revealed he is yet to decide on the youngster’s involvement for Saturday after missing the previous six games.

Clarke had a hand in the winner at Bramall Lane when these two sides met earlier in the campaign – and adding the attacker to the team would mean making a change in the squad for the first time in six matches.

The verdict

Bielsa was non-committal to the involvement of Clarke this weekend, and I think that is a good step.

It allows the youngster to get on with recovering from his illness and getting back to match fitness, alleviating pressure on his shoulders ahead of the weekend.

If Bielsa selects Clarke, it would be a bonus after five matches without any alternations to the matchday 18.

His return is being handled superbly by all involved at Elland Road.