‘Massive’ Leeds news after Diego Llorente update – Whelan
Leeds United have been handed a “massive” blessing in disguise after the likes of Diego Llorente and Illan Meslier were forced to pull out of international duty.
The former Leeds striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested Jesse Marsch would be “overjoyed” to have most of his first-team squad at Elland Road during the international break.
Both Llorente and Meslier have remained at Thorp Arch after picking up injuries in the 3-2 win over Wolves.
Llorente took to Twitter (19 March) to voice his disappointment at missing out.
With Raphinha and Robin Koch both ruled out due to positive Covid tests, Stuart Dallas and Dan James are the only senior players away on international duty.
Whelan suggested having nearly everyone around would be a significant boost ahead of the Southampton game on 2 April.
“It’s massive to have pretty much your full squad there to use and utilise,” Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“With a new manager coming in, the international break is crucial because he’s got different points that Marcelo Bielsa had.
“He’s got a different way off the ball and on the ball than Marcelo Bielsa. So to get two weeks of continuous training under the belt with the new manager and information is vitally important.
“Having Raphinha, Kalvin Phillips, Cooper, Meslier and possibly Llorente and Struijk, having that option of a full squad before a Southampton match is absolutely crucial and massive.
“I am sure Marsch is overjoyed. Maybe some of the players were a little bit upset they’re not playing for their international sides.
“But, to be honest with you, your club football is more important than your internationals right now.”
In other news, Whelan thrilled by Jesse Marsch’s Leeds United reveal that “fills my heart with joy”.