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Leeds United confirmed via their official website on Monday that centre-back Pontus Jansson will be out for three weeks after suffering an injury to his knee during the 1-0 defeat to Sheffield United on Saturday, but on the bright side the blow couldn’t have come at a better time.
What’s the word, then?
Well, the Sweden international, who will now stay at Thorp Arch rather than linking up with his country this week, went down with an issue during the reverse against the Blades, but ended up staying on the pitch and even replaced Kiko Casilla between the sticks for the final few minutes after the Spaniard was sent off.
However, it has now been confirmed via leedsunited.com that the 28-year-old will be missing for three weeks, which will surely mean that he’s absent for the visit of Millwall to Elland Road on March 30 – Marcelo Bielsa’s men’s next Championship fixture.
It will leave the Argentine with a decision to make against the Lions, with Gaetano Berardi and Kalvin Phillips two players that could fill in for the enigmatic defender.
Come at the right time
It may seem strange to say it, but if this was going to happen to Jansson or another key player during the run-in then it is a good thing that it has happened at this point.
Given the prognosis it seems likely that the Swede may only miss the Millwall clash and could be available for the trip to Birmingham City on April 6, meaning he shouldn’t be missed too much as long as the Whites can pick up a much-needed three points.
In addition, Berardi is ready-made for a battle against the south London club should he get the nod on March 30, and he is the warrior needed to see off players like Lee Gregory and Steve Morison – both of whom could feature for Neil Harris’ visitors.
