Leeds United’s Ethan Ampadu may have just dropped a major hint on his availability for tonight’s crucial Championship match against Sunderland. Ampadu has been a mainstay in the Leeds lineup this season, playing every single Championship match and forming a strong partnership with Joe Rodon at center-back.
However, Ampadu was labeled a fitness doubt by Leeds manager Daniel Farke in his pre-match press conference. Farke stated that Ampadu had been dealing with illness in the past 48 hours and was not available for training on Monday or Tuesday. The Leeds boss did note that Ampadu would have a tight race to be fit in time for tonight’s match, but would need to make a short training session on Wednesday to be considered for selection.
Despite Farke’s concerns, Ampadu took to Instagram earlier today to post a pre-match graphic, indicating that he may be fit and ready to play tonight. Ampadu has a history of posting pre-match graphics before every match he is available for, and his decision to do so today suggests that he is in the squad and ready to start.
Ampadu’s availability is crucial for Leeds, as they look to solidify their position in the Championship’s top two. The Whites have been in excellent form this season, losing just once in the league since the turn of the year. However, their defeat to Coventry City on Saturday has put pressure on them to bounce back with a win against Sunderland.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke will be keen to avoid making too many changes to his back four for tonight’s match, particularly after what happened when he did so at Watford recently. Bringing in Sam Byram at right-back would be a logical decision, but if Ampadu were not fit, Farke would have to change half of his defense from Saturday.
Ampadu has been a key player for Leeds this season, starting all 41 Championship matches and coming off the pitch in just one. His versatility has been invaluable for Farke, as he has excelled in both midfield and defense. Ampadu’s partnership with Joe Rodon at center-back has been particularly strong, and Leeds will be hoping that the Welsh international is fit to start tonight.
Leeds’ backup options in defense are not up to the standard needed, particularly in the absence of Pascal Struijk. Struijk has been out with injury, and his absence has left Leeds short at center-back. Ampadu’s availability is therefore even more crucial, as he is one of the few players in the squad who can fill in at center-back and perform at a high level.
Ampadu’s potential availability is also good news for Leeds fans, who have been impressed with the Welsh international’s performances this season. Ampadu has been a consistent performer for Leeds, and his absence would have been a significant blow to the team’s chances of securing a top-two finish.
In conclusion, Ethan Ampadu’s potential availability for tonight’s match against Sunderland is a major boost for Leeds United. The Welsh international has been a key player for the Whites this season, and his versatility and consistency have been invaluable. Despite being labeled a fitness doubt by Daniel Farke, Ampadu’s Instagram post today suggests that he may be fit and ready to start. Leeds will be hoping that Ampadu is able to make a short training session tomorrow and be available for selection, as they look to solidify their position in the Championship’s top two.