Leeds United Chat • The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Wednesday 21st October) - Koch rises to the challenge but Phillips out until Christmas
Good Morning. It's Wednesday 21st October, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road.
Shoulder injury to keep Phillips on sidelines until Christmas
Leeds United have been dealt a massive blow with the news that Kalvin Phillips will be sidelined until Christmas after injuring his shoulder in Monday's defeat to Wolves. The ever present midfield suffered the injury after being fouled late on in Leeds' 1-0 reverse, and could now be out until December. Fortunately, the England star will not require surgery.
With only 48 hours until Leeds face high flying Villa, who will replace Phillips as defensive midfielder? Klich has played there before for the Whites. That could open up an opportunity for Jamie Shackleton to get some game. Similarly Hernandez is now back to full fitness and would love to be in the starting XI.
Koch rises to the challenge
After a clumsy start, having given away two penalties in his first couple of games, Leeds defender Robin Koch has gone from strength to strength. The 24 year old German International has been an integral part of Bielsa’s back line, after yet another solid display against Wolves on Monday evening.
He completed 94% of his passes, six interceptions, 17 ball recoveries, and won 75% of his aerial duels. His average so far this term for passing accuracy is 90%, higher than Ben White last season in the Championship.
Koch can mix up his passing too. He's completed 80% of his sweeping diagonals into wide areas giving wingers the chance to launch attacks. How good can Koch be? In years to come, will we be comparing him to the Chief?
