Leeds United have enjoyed a strong start to the season.After being promoted last term few could have predicted the way in which Marcelo Bielsa's side would take to life back in the top flight.After all, it has been 16 long years since the club have been there.The Whites have slotted back into the fast lane with ease as they immediately look to prove why they deserve to keep their top flight status.Seven points from their first five games has put Leeds into the top half of the table - a position that the club would no doubt be happy to hold by the time the end of the campaign rolls around.However they may have been handed a significant blow in the process.Every club needs their captain to lead the way, and the west Yorkshire side are no different.
Liam Cooper has been key to the club's recent rise to the top flight but could be set for a spell on the sidelines.The skipper picked up a groin injury while away on international duty last week.The 29-year-old was due to return to action for Leeds in the 1-0 defeat against Wolves on Monday night but was ruled out of the game in the warm-up.Cooper's absence was a real worry for Leeds supporters, and according to BBC Radio Leeds man Adam Pope, it remains to be seen what the severity of the injury is.
Pope said: "On Cooper not enough information on the injury yet to make an assessment ahead of Friday."
That was backed up by Marcelo Bielsa in his press conference, who said: "I have not received any information on Liam Cooper’s injury yet."
GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...
Supporters will be hoping and praying that this isn't anything too serious.
Liam Cooper is the beating heart of this Leeds United team and they simply don't look the same without him.
Groin injuries are notoriously difficult to recover from and so it's essential that the player doesn't rush back otherwise he risks facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
With so many fixtures crammed into the schedule in the coming weeks, it's vital that Leeds play the long game on this one.
Diego Llorente also missed out against Wolves, meaning that Marcelo Bielsa's options are a little bit limited.
The coming days will be key, but supporters will be thrilled if they see Cooper's name on the teamsheet to face Aston Villa this weekend.