‘My understanding’ – Phil Hay details why Tyler Roberts has been missing for Leeds
The Athletic’s Phil Hay has said that the reason behind Tyler Roberts absence from recent Leeds United squads is – as was rumoured – down to a positive COVID-19 case.
Roberts has not played for the Whites since a substitute appearance in the 5-2 thrashing of Newcastle United on December 16 and has not even made the last two squads, leading to mounting speculation from puzzled Leeds fans.
He would have been expected to line up against League One outfit Crawley Town in last Sunday’s shock 3-0 defeat in the FA Cup, but Hay has detailed the explanation for his exclusion.
Talking on The Athletic’s Leeds discussion page before the Whites host Brighton at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon, Hay gave some insight into the mysterious nature of Roberts’ absences, saying: “Leeds have taken a policy of making no comment on Covid cases.
“My understanding is that Roberts was affected by it, hence his recent absence, but that was never confirmed.
“What we do know is that when Bielsa was asked on Thursday, he said Phillips was the only new absentee.”
This policy of silence seems counter-productive and actually creates more hysteria around the omission of players. Leeds would surely be better served in actually acknowledging Roberts’ absence rather than leaving the question unanswered.
Premier League struggles
Roberts made 23 appearances in the Championship last season and scored four goals as the Whites sauntered to the title and the promise land of the Premier League.
The Wales international made 12 starts and proved himself to be a useful squad member capable of playing in a number of different positions but he has found the step-up in quality difficult to overcome this season.
He has played eight times in the Premier League and started twice but these outings have only amassed 239 minutes in total [WhoScored], which is less than three full games out of a possible 17 so far for Leeds.
Patrick Bamford has shone for Bielsa’s side this season and the striker is into double figures already while he has been an ever-present in the starting XI.
With Bielsa favouring just the one central forward it looks unlikely that Roberts will be able to get much game time here, while the likes of Rodrigo, Mateusz Klich and Pablo Hernandez are all ahead of the 22-year-old in the midfield ranks.
He does not appear suited to a wide role either with Raphinha and Jack Harrison also nailed down starters on the flanks at the moment.
This all points to Roberts possibly seeking a January exit to get some playing time, with a number of Championship clubs reportedly keen on taking him on loan [The Sun].
In other Leeds United news, fans express excitement at potential return of this summer signing.