Leeds United face a tough test as they take on Aston Villa on Friday evening.

It's been a decent start to life back in the Premier League for the Whites who certainly haven't looked out of their depth.

Seven points from five games is a solid return from a tricky run of fixtures, but now the hope is that they can kick on.

A defeat against Wolves on Monday evening was a disappointing blow, and that's why the clash with Dean Smith's side is so important.

Both sides could arguably become embroiled in a relegation battle at the end of the season, and that means that picking up three points could be a real boost.

But for Leeds they face a number of obstacles.

As well as potentially being without their captain Liam Cooper, Marcelo Bielsa faces a spell without his main man.

Of course we're talking about Kalvin Phillips.

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The midfielder faces up to six weeks on the sidelines as a result of a shoulder injury - something which is a sizeable blow for the Whites.

For Phillips the timing of the injury couldn't be worse, and according to Danny Mills it's a blow that could impact the club's results in the coming weeks.

Speaking to Football Insider, Mills said: “The injury is an issue for Leeds.

“He is a magnificent player. He has been absolutely outstanding of late and has got himself into the England side and that will likely rule him out of the next internationals.

“That would be a big blow for him personally. To get injured is disappointing for anybody but to get injured just as you are having a breakthrough.

“Leeds will survive but they would rather not.”

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GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...

The injury to Kalvin Phillips is a massive blow for Leeds United.

The midfielder has established himself as the main man in Marcelo Bielsa's plans since he took charge of the club two years ago.

Phillips is integral to the system that Leeds player, with the 24-year-old occupying a role similar to a quarter-back.

Without his range of passing in that role, the Whites could struggle to meet their usually high standards.

Six weeks is a long time to be without your star man, and the hope for supporters is that Bielsa has a plan to ensure that the team continue performing during that time.