Leeds to be without Phillips and Bamford for Manchester United clash

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Manchester United have an almost fully fit squad of players to choose from for the visit to Leeds this weekend.

Struggling opponents Leeds are not so fortunate, missing key players for the fixture.

Star midfielder Kalvin Phillips is out. Manager Marcelo Bielsa told the Yorkshire Evening Post that the £50 million valued England international is not expected back until March.

Bielsa said, also referencing injured defender Liam Cooper: “Kalvin and Cooper continue their normal processes, the objective is that they get to March available.”

Leeds are could also be without Northern Ireland international Stuart Dallas, who is battling an injury, although Bielsa says he ‘has not been discarded’ from his selection plans.

Also set to miss the game is Patrick Bamford, who has not featured for the side since December. Premier Injuries lists no set return date for the striker, who was Leeds’ top scorer last season.

Bielsa said: “He continues with the same problem.”

Leeds’ top scorer this season is Raphinha. He is set to play and will be their key dangerman, while Dan James could lead the line.

Assessing James’ form, Bielsa told Leeds Live: “Like the team, he has had some good moments and some not so good. There was three games moreover than the results where the team showed a good level and in the last game that level dropped.”

Leeds were beaten 2-0 last week by Donny van de Beek’s Everton and have conceded 46 goals in the Premier League this season, with only Norwich City (50) conceding more.

United scored five past Leeds earlier in the season and while the goals have not been flowing lately, Ralf Rangnick’s side have been creating a lot of chances.

It would not be a surprise to see the dam break and United score a hatful this weekend, although Leeds played tough at Elland Road last season.

However, their injury problems make for a weak side which Ralf Rangnick should be able to exploit. Anything less than three points will be a disappointment on Sunday.

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