Marc Roca sends message to Junior Firpo after return to action for Leeds United

Marc Roca sent a message to his ex-teammate Junior Firpo after the latter returned from injury for Leeds United in the 2-1 victory against Plymouth Argyle.

Firpo played 36 minutes against Argyle after being called upon when Sam Byram was forced off with an injury, having missed the start of the season with a ligament injury [The Athletic, 22 July].

Roca, meanwhile, has enjoyed a strong start to his loan career with Real Betis in Spain, having departed Elland Road following the relegation from the Premier League.

Firpo's recent Instagram post [11 November], read: "Happy to be back with the team, I've missed so much this feeling. Thanks for the warm reception Elland Road," and Roca wrote in reply: "Come on, brother".

Looking to push on from here

With his former teammates' encouraging words in mind, Firpo will now be looking to sustain his fitness for the coming weeks and months as he lends his contribution to the cause under Daniel Farke, with promotion the target for this season.

His return could not have come at a better time for Leeds, with Byram forced off through injury and his previous injury struggles well-documented, Firpo could be called upon on a more regular basis over the next few games.

After coming off the bench against Argyle, Firpo completed a fairly routine performance which saw him win 100% of his ground duels, make two tackles, complete one interception and one clearance as he adapted to being back in the side. [Sofascore]

The return of the left-back will not just be a boost to his own mentality, but also to the confidence of Farke and his squad with the depth now increased and the quality in the side beginning to return.

In other Leeds United news, the club must sign an "outstanding" £50m star after his display on Saturday.