Leeds United vs Blackburn Rovers - Bamford doubtful as Leeds host Blackburn on Boxing Day

Posted Monday, December 24, 2018 by PA

Sky Bet Championship leaders Leeds could again be without striker Patrick Bamford for the Boxing Day match against Blackburn.

Bamford, who had just returned to the squad following an injury lay-off, suffered a knee problem in training and missed Sunday’s 3-2 comeback win at Aston Villa, but Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa hopes it will not prove a long-term issue.

Defender Barry Douglas felt ill during the warm-up at Villa Park and was replaced in the starting XI by Leif Davis for the teenager to make his debut.

Midfielder Izzy Brown (hamstring) remains sidelined, along with captain Liam Cooper (knee) and fellow defender Gaetano Berardi (hamstring). Winger Stuart Dallas (foot) is also still out while forward Samuel Saiz will play no further part for Leeds before his January loan switch to Getafe.

Blackburn could again be without midfielder Craig Conway for the trip to West Yorkshire.

Conway has been sidelined by a muscle problem and was replaced in the starting XI by Adam Armstrong for the 1-0 home defeat against Norwich.

Midfielder Jack Rodwell returned to the matchday squad after missing Rovers’ last three fixtures because of concussion, so could come into contention.

Winger Elliott Bennett continues to be assessed on a foot injury, while midfielder Ben Gladwin and forward Dominic Samuel remain sidelined with respective knee issues.