James Debayo could start in Leeds United v Sheffield Wednesday. Credit: Imago

James Debayo 'set for first Leeds United start v Sheffield Wednesday' after injury news

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Published on:

17 Jan 2025, 12:10 pm

James Debayo will be praying for Daniel Farke to hand him a first Leeds United start against Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday.

The 19-year-old centre-back was rewarded his debut as Leeds beat Swansea City 4-3 in November, replacing Dan James in the final few moments of the game at the Swansea.com Stadium.

He has been on the bench for 18 of the Whites' Championship matches this term, with Farke clearly reluctant to give him a bigger role in the team, but he may have no choice now.

Pascal Struijk has suffered a brand-new injury setback, a player who has started 24 of 26 league matches so far and was trusted with the captain's armband in the absence of Ethan Ampadu.

Speaking to the media ahead of Sunday's clash at Elland Road, Farke said: "Once the fluid has settled, we will rescan next week to give us a better timeframe. If the tendon is involved, it would be a longer rehab”

James Debayo's time to shine after Leeds United injury blow?

Of course, Farke is much more likely to pair Joe Rodon and Ampadu in defence, but that would leave an incredible midfield presence out of the middle of the park.

Starting Debayo in the centre of defence against the Owls would allow the Welshman to deputise in midfield alongside either Ao Tanaka or Joe Rothwell, with Ilia Gruev working back to full fitness.

Youngsters have been given limited minutes under Farke, with the German reluctant to hand out minutes without reason, but Debayo is very much deserving of a chance in the first team.

Leeds United defender Pascal Struijk [Credit: Imago]

If the manager is not going to offer the 19-year-old some more consistent minutes with the senior team, Leeds need to find a loan deal for him before the winter transfer window closes on 3 February.

Starting Debayo could be really important for the future, especially if the Whites are affected by any other injuries.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites have been backed to take advantage of their rivals' financial situation for an £8million signing.

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Leeds United

Pascal Struijk

sheffield wednesday

James Debayo