Javi Gracia dealt blow as Max Wober ‘major doubt’ for Leeds United Premier League clash v Southampton
Max Wober is a “major doubt” for Leeds United’s Premier League clash against Southampton this weekend, in a big blow for new boss Javi Gracia.
Wober was forced off with a shoulder problem during the defeat to Everton last week, which saw the team plunge into the relegation zone and influenced the club hierarchy to appoint a more experienced boss with the Spaniard being announced on Tuesday (21 February).
But speaking to GiveMeSport (21 February), injury expert Ben Dinnery says that January signing Wober will be a “major doubt” for the game owing to the nature of the injury he suffered, however he doesn’t expect him to be out long-term.
“You certainly can’t rule him out for a long period because there have been examples of players who have been able to return within seven to 10 days, while others can stretch up to three, four or even five weeks. It comes down to the severity of the problem.
“The fact that he was able to continue through until half-time, although obviously painful and sore, should be taken as a good sign. The possibility is that they will be working on that shoulder this week and then maybe getting some kind of supportive brace to protect that joint as well.
“Obviously, he has been red flagged as a major doubt this weekend. But, in the grand scheme of things, it certainly isn’t something which is too long-term or serious.”
Blow
Wober was brought in because the club was desperate for new defensive options for the second half of the season, but not having them available is a big problem considering the situation we’re in.
Pascal Struijk hasn’t been available due to a concussion, while Junior Firpo has been awful for a long time and Liam Cooper hasn’t been fit recently either.
With Diego Llorente being allowed to join Roma in January, the options now are slim with an injury or two and when we have a must-win game that is the last thing we need.
The game against Southampton is exactly that, and the fans will be right behind the new manager from the start because we know how important the fixture is. However, this isn’t a big help for him when he needs to establish his style as soon as possible.
Wober has been impressive since signing and his absence will be a blow, but now is the chance for players to step up and earn their money to keep us in the Premier League with a big result.
In other Leeds news, this Spanish pair are seen as a “strong bet” to join Javi Gracia’s backroom staff at Elland Road.