Sport nationLeeds United manager Daniel Farke has explained his surprise decision to bench captain Ethan Ampadu during the team’s 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers on Saturday. Farke revealed that the decision was made due to concerns over Ampadu’s recovery status, following a recent injury that kept him out for 2.5 months.
Ampadu had started four consecutive games for Leeds before being benched against Blackburn, and Farke stated that the team’s sports scientists had raised “red flags” about the player’s recovery. Farke emphasized that the team cannot afford to lose Ampadu for another extended period, and therefore took a cautious approach.
The decision to bench Ampadu was one of four changes made by Farke to the starting lineup, and it raised some eyebrows among fans and pundits. However, Farke’s explanation suggests that the decision was made with Ampadu’s long-term health and fitness in mind.
Ampadu did eventually come on as a substitute in the second half, replacing Jayden Bogle, and appeared to come through the game unscathed. He will now be in contention to start when Leeds face Hull City on Saturday.
Farke’s decision to bench Ampadu may have been surprising, but it highlights the manager’s commitment to prioritizing player welfare and taking a cautious approach to managing injuries. With Leeds pushing for promotion to the Premier League, it is crucial that the team keeps its key players fit and available for selection.
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