Football Insider have claimed that Marcelo Bielsa will bring in Liam Cooper to replace Ezgjan Alioski for Leeds United against Leicester City.
The Whites have been excellent this term after returning to England’s top flight following a 16-year hiatus, producing some excellent displays such as the draw with Manchester City and 3-0 win at Aston Villa.
Bielsa is now preparing for Monday’s tie with Leicester and the Argentine has the welcome return of Liam Cooper to his squad. The captain had been out injured and missed the game against Dean Smith’s side, but Bielsa revealed that the defender was set to return against Brendan Rodgers’ side.
What have Football Insider said about Cooper’s return?
With Cooper fully expected to come back into the starting XI on Monday evening, Football Insider have claimed that he will replace utility player Ezgjan Alioski. Ex-Leeds striker Noel Whelan, who speaks often to the website, feels that such a move would be unfortunate on the North Macedonian. He said:
“It would be (harsh), it would be but I think all the players now know and realise under Marcelo Bielsa there will be certain changes whether you win, lose or draw.
“To bring certain people in to get round pegs back in round holes, rather than square pegs in round holes. He (Alioski) has done exceptionally well, he knows his role at the club, as does everybody, that if a certain player is to be fit for a certain game, they will be dropped to the bench.
“That is what a team is all about, that is why you have a squad and you have certain players that can understand that role they have to play within the team. It’s going to be a long season, he’s going to be called upon again, no doubt.
“What he has done is shown his professionalism and he’s capable to be at Leeds United and deal with the Premier League.”
Alioski set for a new deal at Leeds
The 28-year-old North Macedonia international is now into the final months of his current deal at Elland Road. Having featured 138 times for the Whites during his time with the club, Alioski has proven to be a key member of the squad, playing in a variety of positions under Bielsa.
Football Insider broke the news of Leeds’ plans to push for a new deal, also saying that the winger remains a key player for Bielsa.
READ MORE: Alioski set to receive contract offer from Leeds United…
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