Premier League clubs issue South American stars request amid potential Leeds United-Raphinha problem
Leeds United are among a host of Premier League clubs concerned about the availability of their South American stars ahead of their next Premier League fixture.
The Daily Mail report that top-flight sides are have asked their South American players to withdraw from international duty early in order to return in time for their next club game.
There are two issues at hand; firstly, there is uncertainty over which players are eligible for quarantine exemption, and secondly, the date of the fixtures.
Brazil have three games during the October international break. The first is against Venezuela October 8 before a clash with Colombia two days later.
Uruguay then make the trip to the Amazonia Arena on October 15. That Friday fixture comes just one day before Leeds play Southampton at St. Mary’s Stadium, meaning Raphinha, who could win his first Brazil cap this month, is a doubt for the game.
Sportsmail [Daily Mail] claim some clubs have asked their players whether they would consider missing Friday week’s fixtures so that they can be available for selection.
Early Raphinha return?
The Brazilian has been crucial for Leeds so far this season and is their top Premier League goalscorer with three goals.
The Whites began the 2021/22 campaign in inauspicious fashion but a 1-0 win over Watford on Saturday will have instilled confidence.
But the loss of Raphinha for the trip to Southampton next weekend would act as a big blow.
Of course, the signing of Dan James means Leeds now have options in the wide areas with Jack Harrison and Crysencio Summerville also vying for a place.
But none of them come close to Raphinha.
Hopefully, common sense will prevail.
Brazil are currently eight points clear at the top of South American World Cup qualifying group after winning all eight games so far.
They’re as good as qualified already, but wins in their next two fixtures would surely confirm progress.
If that happens, then do Brazil need their Premier League-based players for their final game?
In other Leeds United news, a BBC pundit has called for a lifetime ban after this Whites player incident.