Leeds fans thrilled over ‘massive’ news ahead of Arsenal clash

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A number of Leeds United fans have welcomed Marcelo Bielsa’s update on Robin Koch ahead of the Arsenal game.

The Whites will host Mikel Arteta’s Gunners at Elland Road in Saturday’s late Premier League kickoff.

Not only are Arsenal in good form again, but Leeds have a lot of players out through injury or suspension.

Jamie Shackleton and Dan James were both forced out of Tuesday night’s 7-0 defeat at Manchester City.

Kalvin Phillips, Patrick Bamford, Liam Cooper, Rodrigo and Pascal Struijk are also out injured.

Meanwhile, Junior Firpo is serving a one-game ban.

Koch was previously on the injured list.

He was absent since the opening-day defeat at Manchester United due to a pelvic issue and then illness.

However, Bielsa has now confirmed that Koch is available against Arsenal on Saturday.

“Robin Koch is available,” the Leeds boss told the club’s media team.

“It’s not an evaluation we will make just yet [on whether he will play].

“Luke Ayling came back to play as a starter after playing 45 minutes with the Under 23s.

“Koch has accumulated training sessions here that are sufficient.”

Bielsa normally prefers to ease returning players into action.

But he may not have the choice this weekend, given Leeds’ depleted squad and continued league struggles.

That said, it’s a welcome boost for Leeds and fans were pleased: