Leeds United defender Leo Hjelde appears to be available for selection against Watford this afternoon.

The Lowdown: Hjelde’s absence

Hjelde was last seen for the Whites against Everton back in February but has missed the last eight games due to a knee problem.

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The 18-year-old required surgery on the injury but has seemingly made good progress over recent weeks. He wasn’t included in the match-day squad against Southampton, but did return to full training last week.

After Joe Gelhardt was confirmed fit, it seems there may be even more good news for supporters ahead of the clash with the Hornets.

The Latest: Marsch keeps quiet

Leeds shared Marsch’s pre-match press conference from Thorp Arch on their official Twitter page on Thursday afternoon.

The American began with an injury report, ruling out Patrick Bamford, Tyler Roberts, Junior Firpo and Jamie Shackleton for the trip to Vicarage Road.

One man the boss kept quiet on was Hjelde, but he added that all the players not mentioned above ‘are available and ready to go’, implying the youngster is joining Gelhardt on the available list after his return to the pitches at Thorp Arch.

The Verdict: Welcome news

Hjelde impressed in back-to-back games against West Ham in January, helping the Whites to an excellent 3-2 win at the London Stadium in the Premier League.

Therefore, his possible return to the match-day squad will be a welcome one, especially with Firpo still out.

Hjelde, capable of playing as a centre-back or at left-back, could provide cover on the bench for Stuart Dallas against Watford, in what is a crucial encounter at the bottom of the table.

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