Charlie Cresswell must be considered for Leeds bench after Robin Koch injury

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Leeds United have suffered a significant blow ahead of their next game this Friday, with the club confirming on their official website that Robin Koch will undergo surgery on a knee injury that has been with him for much of the season.

It remains to be seen how long the Germany international is missing for. But it looks more than likely that Diego Llorente will be promoted from the bench for his first start for the club.

That leaves Marcelo Bielsa with a decision regarding who to call-up to the bench. Pascal Struijk was also involved against Chelsea. So he may decide that another centre-back is not needed.

There is also the chance that someone such as Leif Davis could return. Davis is capable of playing at centre-back, as well as left-back. So Bielsa may feel that he provides sufficient cover alongside Struijk.

But perhaps Bielsa should actually consider promoting another young prospect instead.

Charlie Cresswell has had a taste of first-team football this season. The 18-year-old made his senior debut in the Carabao Cup.

He is however, awaiting his first involvement in the Premier League. But given the performances he is producing for the under-23s, he must surely be a name that Bielsa thinks about before Friday.

Cresswell regularly captains Mark Jackson’s side. That says a lot considering he is often playing alongside key first-team players looking to build up on their fitness and sharpness.

He is also a standout performer for the youth ranks on a consistent basis. The teenager reads the game superbly, and his passing ability is a real strength.

It would be asking a lot to expect him to come in in a top flight game. But with Struijk also there, Bielsa can potentially include him to simply give him that experience.

And in truth, given how some of the under-23 prospects have stepped up under Bielsa, there is arguably little reason to believe that Cresswell could not prove a revelation if he is needed at some stage.