NafisaLeeds United have been handed a major injury concern following their 1-1 draw with Brentford at Elland Road, with Daniel Farke admitting the situation could leave his defensive options stretched heading into a crucial period of the season.
The Whites were forced to settle for a point after falling behind in the first half, with Kevin Schade’s effort giving Brentford the advantage before Dominic Calvert-Lewin eventually rescued Leeds with a late equaliser.
It was a much-improved performance from Farke’s side after the interval, particularly following the manager’s half-time changes. Leeds showed considerably more attacking intent and looked capable of turning the game around, although Brentford remained dangerous on the counter.
However, the positive result came with an unwanted setback.
One of Farke’s important players was forced off before half-time after appearing to suffer a problem while attempting to chase down a ball. The defender immediately pulled up and required treatment before eventually making way.
Farke has now confirmed that the issue is a hamstring injury, with the Leeds boss admitting he hopes his player will not be sidelined for too long.
Daniel Farke confirms major injury
Joe Rodon lasted just 33 minutes at Elland Road before being forced off with what appeared to be a hamstring problem.
The Welsh international attempted to sprint back and clear the danger but quickly felt the injury and went to ground.
After the match, Farke confirmed the initial diagnosis and acknowledged the potential consequences for his squad.
“Rodon hamstring injury.
“We have to assess him. Hopefully he’s not out too long.
“We do not have many senior centre-back options. Thank God we have Nico Elvedi.”
The comments will undoubtedly concern Leeds supporters, particularly with the transfer window approaching its conclusion and Farke already admitting that his squad does not have an abundance of senior centre-backs.
Rodon’s absence would leave Leeds with limited experienced options in the position, making the timing of the injury particularly awkward.
Nico Elvedi will be huge now
Fortunately for Farke, Leeds managed to secure the signing of Nico Elvedi before the beginning of the campaign.
The Swiss defender had been pursued by the Whites throughout the summer before eventually completing a permanent move to Elland Road.
He has already provided supporters with plenty of reasons to be excited about his arrival.
Elvedi impressed during Leeds’ 2-0 EFL Cup victory over Nottingham Forest, showing his experience and composure against a physical striker in Chris Wood.
He was then thrown into the action against Brentford following Rodon’s departure and adapted impressively despite having to deal with changes to the team’s defensive shape.
With Rodon now facing a spell on the sidelines, Elvedi could be required to take on a much bigger role.
The 29-year-old is therefore likely to come into contention for the Premier League trip to Brighton on Saturday, where his experience could prove particularly valuable.
Farke will now wait for further assessment of Rodon’s hamstring before knowing exactly how long he will be without him.
But with Leeds already looking light in central defence, even a relatively short absence could force the club to reconsider its transfer plans before the window closes.
Nafisa
