Marcelo Bielsa: A classic opponent increases the enthusiasm

Marcelo Bielsa: A classic opponent increases the enthusiasm

Head coach on Manchester United match.

Marcelo Bielsa has given his thoughts to the media, ahead of his side taking on Manchester United at Elland Road on Sunday.

The Whites are facing their fierce rivals in front of fans on home turf for the first time in the Premier League since 2003, with the sell-out crowd expected to create another superb atmosphere. 

Speaking about the match and the prospect of that atmosphere - which the supporters can create this weekend - Leeds United’s head coach gave his thoughts. 

“A classic game is always a challenge that is very motivating,” Bielsa explained. 

“It’s not about what I would like but it’s what the fans give, always. They always support the team unconditionally.  

“It’s difficult to imagine a support bigger than the one we’ve already received. The presence of a classic opponent increases the enthusiasm and it will be precious to be able to witness it. 

“Of course, we think more about what we need to give to the public rather than what we need to receive from them. 

“I think the players, in general, imagine the type of game they will come up against."

Bielsa then gave another injury update on his side, after a full week of training prior to the fixture on Sunday.

He said: “Kalvin Phillips and Liam Cooper continue their normal processes. 

“The objective is that they get to March available. The medical calculation was 12 weeks and that hasn’t changed.

“Stuart Dallas is recovering, he hasn’t been discarded from Sunday’s game. 

“Leo Hjelde has an injury in his knee and if the process in the next three weeks is effective he would be available in that term. But, it could happen that he may not recover in those 20 days. 

“Patrick Bamford continues with the same problem.”

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