Ethan Ampadu made his return to Leeds United’s bench on Saturday afternoon against Derby County, and now manager Daniel Farke has received encouraging news about another key player at Elland Road.
Earlier in the season, Leeds faced a midfield dilemma when Ampadu was forced off the field just before halftime against Coventry City. The situation worsened in the following match as Ilia Gruev sustained an injury against Norwich.
In Ampadu and Gruev’s absence, Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell stepped up to form a strong midfield duo under Farke. Their impressive performances have led Stuart Dallas to suggest that Farke will face a selection headache once all his midfielders are fit and available.
With Ampadu and Gruev on the verge of returning, the competition for midfield spots intensifies, especially with Josuha Guilavogui providing additional cover after his recent signing. Now, a fresh update from Bulgarian media offers insight into Gruev’s recovery.
Ampadu’s return to match readiness was complemented by Gruev making significant progress in his rehabilitation from a long-term knee injury. According to a report by Bulgarian outlet 24 Chasa, Gruev, two months post-surgery at London’s King College Hospital, has started light training, including ball work, though he remains apart from the main squad.
While earlier reports from Leeds Live indicated a March return for Gruev, 24 Chasa suggests he could be available as early as mid-January, providing a timely boost for Farke.
The recent 1-0 loss to Blackburn highlighted the struggles of Rothwell and Tanaka, with Tanaka delivering a subpar performance and Rothwell fading against his former club. However, the match against Derby saw a turnaround as Simon Grayson praised Tanaka, and Rothwell delivered a man-of-the-match performance, perhaps motivated by Ampadu’s presence on the bench and the added competition.
Ampadu, as Leeds’ captain, is almost certain to start when fully fit, but his midfield partner remains undecided. Tanaka appears the frontrunner for now, though Gruev’s imminent return adds further complexity to the selection dynamic.
Gruev’s ahead-of-schedule recovery is a significant boost for Farke as Leeds approach a congested Christmas fixture list. His return in January could feel akin to a new signing, providing much-needed depth and options in the midfield.
