Marcelo Bielsa has confirmed that Leeds will have to do without Pablo Hernandez for at least the next two matches – as he recovers from an issue with his hamstring.
The former Spain international has missed the last four games with a calf problem, but a plan to play him in an U23s match backfired and has ruled Hernandez out for the next week.
On Friday, the 34-year-old played half an hour for Leeds’ reserve side but picked up a new injury that will keep one of the Championship’s best players out for two crucial fixtures.
First up is tonight’s game with high flying Preston North End and then on Saturday a trip to Hillsborough for a Yorkshire derby with Sheffield Wednesday.
Certainly, these are two games where Leeds could have done with their Spanish schemer.
The main positive, however, is the fact the Whites have managed to find themselves in second place – despite the fact they have not had one of their more talented footballers.
This means that once Hernandez returns, Leeds should only get better.