Ethan Ampadu spotted remonstrating with Leeds United teammate at Elland Road

Ethan Ampadu remonstrated with Leeds United teammate Largie Ramazani before the 2-0 victory over Derby County, according to Graham Smyth.

Smyth reported in his unseen moments column for the Yorkshire Evening Post ]8 December] that the returning captain was in high spirits as he had a jokey exchange with his colleague.

The Whites skipper was expected to be out until January with a knee injury suffered in the 3-0 win over Coventry in September.

However, the Wales international provided Daniel Farke with a huge boost as he returned to the squad for the win that took the Elland Road club back to the top of the Championship.

Smyth wrote: "Ampadu was straight back into the rondo arguments, remonstrating with Largie Ramazani when the Belgian disputed the fact that he should go in the middle.

"Needless to say the skipper got his way.

"Ramazani duly joined in the Elland Road applause as Ampadu was welcomed back to the squad over the public address system and the pair had a giggle as they sprinted up the pitch in a break from the keep-ball game."

Ethan Ampadu return is a huge boost for Leeds United

While Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell have stepped up massively in his absence, Ampadu's return is a massive boost for the Whites.

United returned to the summit of the Championship with the win over Derby after a disappointing loss to Blackburn had seen their progress stall.

The Welshman will bring increased defensive stability for Farke's side and allow their attacking players to thrive.

Given the form of Tanaka and Rothwell, the skipper could be integrated back into the team slowly to avoid a repeat injury.

Ampadu's early comeback will only serve to help the Whites in their promotion push - he really is a crucial player for the club.

He will be itching to get back onto the pitch after not getting onto it against Derby and supporters and teammates will be ecstatic when he does.

In other Leeds United news, one Whites player has proved why he should not be sold after his performance v Derby.

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