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Good Morning. It's Tuesday 28th October, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road
Brendan Rodgers availability sparks interested among Leeds fans
Brendan Rodgers’ resignation as Celtic manager yesterday shocked everyone. After a disappointing start to the Scottish Premiership season, the Northern Irishman decided to step down, bringing a premature end to his second spell in charge at Parkhead. The decision comes amid resurfacing reports linking Rodgers with Leeds United, who had previously pursued him in the summer of 2023 following their relegation from the Premier League.
At that time, Leeds were looking for a proven coach capable of guiding them back to the top flight, and Rodgers, having just been dismissed by Leicester City, was top of their wanted list. However, despite serious interest from Elland Road, Rodgers chose sentiment over adventure, opting to return to Celtic, where he had previously enjoyed rich success.
In hindsight, it seems that Rodgers never fully warmed to the idea of managing in the Championship, even at a club of Leeds United’s stature. His return to Glasgow was viewed as a sentimental homecoming, an opportunity to rekindle the winning formula that had defined his earlier tenure. However, just like getting back with an ex - it rarely ends well!
Despite a morale-boosting victory over West Ham, uncertainty clouds Farke’s future beyond the current campaign. The prospect of appointing Rodgers; a manager with proven pedigree, a clear footballing philosophy, and an adeptness for rebuilding clubs could prove irresistible. For Leeds, at a crossroads in their long-term project, the opportunity to recruit a coach of his calibre might be too valuable to miss out on.
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Brighton could be without 6 players this weekend
Leeds United face another stern test this weekend as they make the 250 mile journey down to the seaside to take on Brighton & Hove Albion, a side who may be forced to shuffle the pack due to a growing injury list. Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler could be without as many as six players for the clash, leaving him with plenty to ponder ahead of the visit of Daniel Farke’s men.
The Seagulls are definitely missing three key figures. Winger Solly March, often a thorn in Leeds’ side in previous meetings, remains sidelined with a long-term knee injury that could keep him out for the rest of the year. Towering defender Adam Webster is another confirmed absentee as he continues his recovery from knee surgery, while England U21 defender Jack Hinshelwood is also on the treatment table with an ankle problem.
Three more players are rated as doubtful, adding further uncertainty to Brighton’s preparations. £75m rated winger Kaoru Mitoma missed the recent trip to Manchester United but could resume training this week. Versatile defender Joel Veltman, who has been dealing with a lower-leg injury, has returned to light training, though his match fitness remains in question.
Midfielder Brajan Gruda, meanwhile, is a concern after picking up an issue while on international duty. One player who will definitely play for the Seagulls this weekend is former Leeds star Georginio Rutter. The versatile forward is their sixth best ranking player, with you 'Whoscored' rating of 6.69. It remains to be seen what kind of reception he gets. Many were surprised that Crysencio Summerville was targeted by the Elland Road faithful last weekend!
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