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Marcelo Bielsa has told his pre-Cardiff City press conference – as per the Leeds United’s Twitter account – that Adam Forshaw and Pablo Hernandez will miss Sunday’s trip to Cardiff City, and suggested Jean-Kevin Augustin will also be unavailable.
Veteran Hernandez is set to miss the return to football, with the Spain international suffering a setback in preparations for the Cardiff clash. The former Valencia star has been crucial to the Whites’ promotion charge.
The news comes as a blow to Leeds, while Bielsa also confirmed that Forshaw remains sidelined – with the player himself recently stating that he is unlikely to feature for the rest of the campaign.
Asked about Augustin’s availability, Bielsa stated that the Frenchman has been fit since April – when he picked up a hamstring strain – but that the striker is doing individual work, suggesting he would not play.
“Pablo is returning to training next Wednesday,” Bielsa said. “Forshaw is completing his recovery process. Augustin is not injured since April, but he is doing individual work we think is necessary.
Asked to clarify whether Hernandez and Augusting would be sidelined for Sunday’s clash, Bielsa stated: “Pablo, no, Augustin is doing individual work. We think this is necessary ahead of the weekend.”
TBR’s view – Hernandez a blow, but Leeds still favourites
The Bundesliga has proved over the last few weeks that home advantage flies out of the window when clubs meet at stadiums without the home support. With the Whites coming into the match after five straight wins, they will be confident.
Hernandez’s absence will be a blow, but Leeds have plenty of options – including Tyler Roberts who is said to have been sharp during training. It remains to be seen who will replace Hernandez.
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