Leeds United Suffer Major Setback as Struik Ruled Out of Yorkshire Derby

 

 

Leeds United have been dealt a significant blow ahead of this afternoon’s crucial Yorkshire derby against Sheffield United with the news that centre-back and vice-captain Pascal Struijk will miss the clash through injury.

The Dutchman sustained a hamstring injury in training yesterday and has been ruled out for the foreseeable future. The initial prognosis suggests Struijk could be sidelined for up to three weeks, a major setback for Daniel Farke’s side as they look to climb the Championship table.

Struijk has been a key figure for Leeds since joining the club in 2020. His versatility has seen him deployed across the backline and in midfield, and his leadership qualities have been invaluable to the squad.

The loss of Struijk will be keenly felt, particularly in a derby match against their fierce rivals. Sheffield United will undoubtedly look to exploit the absence of the Dutchman, who has been a rock at the heart of Leeds’ defence.

Farke will now have to reshuffle his backline, with Liam Cooper likely to partner with either Charlie Cresswell or Maximilian Wober in the centre of defence.

The injury to Struijk comes at a crucial time for Leeds, who are currently battling for a place in the play-offs. The Whites will be hoping that the absence of their vice-captain does not derail their promotion push.

This afternoon’s clash at Bramall Lane promises to be a fiercely contested affair, and Leeds will need to dig deep to secure a positive result despite the setback of losing their influential defender.