David Woods

Thu 29 April 2021 11:40, UK

Leeds United fans have been waiting all week to hear whether winger Raphinha will be fit for the game against Brighton on Saturday.

Raphinha was injured in the 2-1 win against Man City by a shocking tackle from Fernandinho and subsequently missed the games against Liverpool and Man United.

Unfortunately, the news is not good, with Raphinha ruled out of the game.

Bielsa said that he was in the last stages of rehabilitation but couldn’t give a date for his return.

There was some good news. Rodrigo is fit but not guaranteed to play in the game – he’s missed the last three games and hasn’t played more than 44 minutes in a game in the last 14.

Bielsa’s words were relayed by Leeds Live journalist Beren Cross on Thursday morning.

Fernandinho deserves bigger punishment

While Liam Cooper was red-carded and banned for three games after a tackle on Gabriel Jesus, Fernandinho got away with a yellow for a cynical and needlessly violent challenge on Raphinha.

Jesus carried on in the game, Raphinha went off with an injury that’s kept him out of action ever since.

Leeds fans wanted a red for Fernandinho and there really should be comeback for a deliberate and violent challenge that injures a player.

However, Leeds are right not to rush him back before he’s ready.

While we’re still potentially pushing for Europe, the important work has already been done this season and unless he’s 100% there’s just no point risking him.

It’s a huge blow for the side, though, with Raphinha being our standout attacker this season.

Hopefully he can still play a part in the rest of this season.

In other Leeds United news, ‘If they can get away with it’ – Simon Jordan claims Leeds should forfeit share of £80m windfall