Marcelo Bielsa faced the press ahead of this weekends game against Huddersfield Town. Here is what we learned...
An FA Cup tie at Arsenal to look forward to
They're one of the best teams in England. We will be proud to compete with them. Can't confirm if Nketiah would be able to play for Leeds in that game.
The FA Cup Third Round tie will take place on Monday 6th January and broadcast live on BBC Match of the Day.
Kalvin Phillips is banned for Huddersfield
Forshaw would have replaced Phillips if not injured but Ben White is likely to come in at defensive mid. It's a new position for him. He has the skills to play there but he's not used to playing there. White displays the characteristics of a midfielder when playing as centre back. Changing his position will improve him in many ways - mobility, coordination, speed etc. Uses the example of Fernandinho who was a midfielder who now plays defence. Bielsa says Leeds have enough options to cope with the change to the defence.
Leeds' current form
In defence we've improved the recovery of the ball. We're making less mistakes which make it easier for the opponents to attack. We need to keep the defensive performance but increase the efficiency with scoring.
Huddersfield
Thinks they could be further up the table and says every club has ups and downs - apart from Liverpool at the moment. The Cowleys are trying to develop the squad alongside gaining results. This Bielsa believes is not a linear process in football.
Current Injuries
Forshaw still isn't available and hasn't completed his recovery. He's working hard every day with a lot of professionalism. The same with the medical staff. We don't have one date when he's going to come back with us.
Jamie Shackleton has a fresh problem (muscle strain) and is out for two-to-three weeks. Likewise Tyler Roberts will not be available for the Huddersfield game either.
