Report: Leeds players stunned by Marcelo Bielsa’s training decision

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Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa has reportedly shocked some of his players and staff with his decision regarding training.

According to the Daily Mail, the Whites boss has informed his squad that they won’t be given any extra time off amid the football break caused by coronavirus (COVID-19).

Professional football in England has been postponed at least until 3 April due to the virus spreading, with the FA, Premier League, EFL and the WSL all agreeing to come to a temporary halt.

The report states that Bielsa wants to keep the foot on the gas for his team and they will attend training as previously planned, despite the fact some other clubs have given players time off.

It is explained that some players and also members of the club’s medical team are questioning the decision not to take some form of break.

Leeds will be hopeful that the future of this Championship season is resolved with the rest of the games being played, but nobody knows the outcome right now during an uncertain time.

The Yorkshire giants are sat top of the league as it stands in an automatic promotion position and are desperate to finally return to the Premier League after a 14-year wait.

TBR’s View – Will promotion bid lose momentum?

Leeds have a seven-point cushion over third in the Championship and debate is already ongoing about what would happen if the rest of the season was cancelled.

The Whites just have to take each day as it comes with health and safety rightfully a priority right now, but further down the line hope that the football can resume.

It would be interesting to see if an unscheduled break of at least three weeks would impact the players and it makes sense for Bielsa not to allow them to lose focus, but it seems like a rare scenario when a break makes sense for all.

Leeds have won their previous five league matches to build up momentum in their promotion bid, but it would have an early-season feel with a real loss of momentum if action returned next month.