Liam Cooper injury ‘huge blow’ for Leeds United youngsters ahead of Birmingham City clash
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United …
Liam Cooper’s injury is a “huge blow” for Leeds United and could have an impact on the performances of the younger players, according to Paul Robinson.
The Athletic reported (8 August) that the captain is set for up to eight weeks on the sidelines with a foot injury after scoring Leeds’ opening Championship goal against Cardiff City.
With his communication and leadership skills, Cooper is a vital element of the Leeds United side and his absence could have an impact across the pitch.
Robinson claims that his absence could have a real impact on Elland Road’s younger stars. The likes of Ethan Ampadu, Leo Hjelde and Archie Gray who are settling into a tough Championship campaign will miss Cooper’s leadership as they continue the first stretch of the season in search of wins.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said: “Listen, he’s the captain for a reason, not just his performances on the field, but his leadership qualities on the field and off the field as well. To miss a character like that around the dressing room or around the first-team squad, it’s a huge blow.
“Especially so early on in the season, you know, you don’t go into the season expecting to lose your captain.
“Six to eight weeks, however long it could potentially be, with the youngsters around him and Ampadu and Gray specifically in front of him, the communication lines and vocabulary between them, it could be significant.
“I think last season, you could question the leadership on the field though. But with him and Luke and you certainly get that. It is going to be an area that they are going to miss him hugely for.”
In other Leeds United news, wantaway Willy Gnonto’s two-word response to exit speculation has been revealed after it was swiftly deleted.