Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa claims that Director of Football Victor Orta will be the man that makes the decision on the future of Lewie Coyle.

The right-back joined the League One side on a loan until January 6 back in the summer and it's unclear where his long-term future lies.

Bielsa's side have a host of options at right-back however Gaetano Berardi, Luke Ayling and Stuart Dallas are all out injured.

That means that youngster Jamie Shackleton is likely to play in that role over the Christmas period.

With the injured trio set for relatively long periods out, many have discussed the prospect of Coyle, who has been a key player for Fleetwood, returning and playing a part.

However, journalist Adam Pope revealed how Bielsa admitted that Orta will be key to deciding what happens next:

"We will make the analysis on what Victor Orta proposes."

Coyle has been an ever-present in the league for Joey Barton's side this season, with the rookie manager sure to want to keep the 23-year-old beyond the current deal.

Should Coyle return to Elland Road he could be involved as the Whites take on Derby on January 11.

The Verdict

It's strange that Bielsa is passing this off to Orta, who has been hit-and-miss with his decisions, as the manager should surely have a big say in whether he needs Coyle at the club.

Whether he does is open for debate. Obviously now he would be playing a part, however, by January a few of those injured players will be nearing a return.

So, the club have a big decision to make as Coyle will want to be playing football for the second half of the campaign.

Thoughts, Leeds fans? Let us know in the comments below.