Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has given some bad news to the fans before the huge game against Arsenal this weekend.
Club captain Ethan Ampadu will miss the match at The Emirates after picking up a knee injury against Everton.
The Wales international is a key player for Leeds and many supporters see him as the heartbeat of the team.
But now, Farke has confirmed the midfielder will be out for a few weeks.
Injury update from Farke
Speaking in his press conference on Thursday, Farke explained that Ampadu has suffered an MCL problem.
The Leeds boss said: “Sadly, the next few games we have to play without him. He will be out until the international break at least. Hopefully, he will be back quickly after, but it is a big blow for us.”
Ampadu was taken off in the second half against Everton after a heavy tackle. Even though he carried on for a while, he could not finish the full game.
Former defender Jamie Carragher even called him the best player on the pitch that day, showing how important he is to the side.
What it means for Leeds
Leeds go into the Arsenal game with less pressure after beating Everton 1-0 on the opening day.
That result gave the team confidence and also a clean sheet to build on. But losing their captain before such a tough away trip is far from ideal.
The numbers show Leeds are strong with or without Ampadu.
Since he joined in 2023, the club’s points record has stayed almost the same when he is missing.
But the big difference is in clean sheets, Leeds keep far more shutouts when he plays. That shows his influence on the defence.
Without him, Daniel Farke may look to Ilia Gruev as a replacement.
Gruev is more defensive compared to other midfield options like Anton Stach, Ao Tanaka or Sean Longstaff.
Whoever steps in will have a tough task against Arsenal’s powerful midfield.
What’s next
Ampadu will now miss three games, Arsenal away, Sheffield Wednesday in the cup, and Newcastle at home.
Leeds hope he can recover and return straight after the international break.
For now, the squad must step up without their captain.
Leeds fans will be nervous, but they also know Farke’s men are capable of surprising the big teams.
All eyes are now on Saturday evening when the Whites walk out at The Emirates without their skipper.
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