Leeds United captain Liam Cooper risks knee lesion recurrence despite Sam Allardyce update – Injury Expert
We’re delighted to welcome injury expert Dr Rajpal Brar as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the injury situation at Leeds United...
Leeds United captain Liam Cooper could be suffering from a recurring injury on his knee as he’s missed several games, claims Dr Rajpal Brar.
The injury expert asserts that as his response to physiotherapy has not been consistent, the return dates have fluctuated.
However, Sam Allardyce ruled him in contention to face West Ham on Sunday, 21 May and confirmed he was back in training. [Leeds Live]
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Brar, a specialist in Physical Therapy and Sports Scientist, said on Cooper, “The information has been pretty limited on the nature and extent of his injury. It’s a non-contact knee injury that occurred during training and seems to be fluctuating in terms of response to physio as his return date has been hinted at multiple times and then he’s been pulled back.
“The training regime will be one where the club physios are methodically ramping up the intensity and seeing how he responds.
“Previous injuries could be hampering his recovery and there’s a major possibility this is a recurrence. Further, he’s been out for extended times this season which impacts fitness and leads to the increased risk when returning.”
The 31-year-old has featured on 17 occasions in the Premier League and has been a starter on most occasions he’s been fit.
There have been three different managers he’s worked under this term and is yet to feature under Allardyce, with his last appearance being in the 4-1 loss against Bournemouth.
Since playing 35 minutes in that game, he has been missing from training, but the manager confirms he’s back in time to be in contention v West Ham.
In other Leeds United news, Karen Carney has had her say on the Whites’ relegation as she’s issued a damning verdict on Sam Allardyce’s men after what she saw recently.