Marcelo Bielsa delivers update on Leeds star Jack Clarke

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Marcelo Bielsa has been quoted by Leeds Live in his pre-Bristol City press conference that Jack Clarke will not be a part of the Leeds United side to take on Lee Johnson’s Robins on Saturday.

The 18-year-old has not featured for Leeds since being taken ill during the 1-1 draw against Middlesbrough last month. He was stretchered off the bench, after being removed at half-time.

It is understood that Clarke had suffered a virus, and his agent and Leeds legend Ian Harte confirmed on Twitter earlier this week that he had returned to first-team training on Monday.

There had been hope that the teenage wonderkid could feature for Leeds against Bristol City. But Bielsa stated that he would return for Leeds’ Under-23 side next week against Charlton on Monday.

“He is well, he’s fit. He will play next week for the under-23s. Probably will be able after this game to be in the main group,” Bielsa said.

TBR’s view

Clarke returning to the Leeds side is paramount to the Whites’ promotion chances. He offers something that the current Leeds side lack in, a raw directness and unpredictability from out wide.

He has been excellent for the Whites and with 11 games including Bristol City left, having him back as soon as possible is very important if Bielsa’s men are to gain promotion.