Leeds United duo Kalvin Phillips and Liam Cooper could return from injury earlier than predicted, according to journalist David Anderson.

The Lowdown: Phillips and Cooper missing

The Whites have had to make do without two of their most important players during an extended period this season, having an obvious effect on their struggles.

Phillips hasn't featured since the start of December because of a hamstring injury, while captain Cooper also hasn't played since that 2-2 draw at home to Brentford due to a similar knock.

The Leeds pair had been expected to be ruled out until March but a positive update has now emerged in that respect.

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The Latest: Journalist makes positive claim

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Anderson claimed that Phillips and Cooper could potentially return before the predicted date.

He revealed: "Bielsa keeps talking about March at the earliest for those two, although some people at the club seem to think that's maybe unnaturally gloomy. They think there may be a chance they could be back maybe a little bit before that."

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The Verdict: Potential major boost

Having Phillips and Cooper back before the end of February would be an enormous boost, given how important they have been for the Whites down the years.

The midfielder and centre-back have made a total of 466 Leeds appearances between them, making up the all-important spine of the team and being at the club since the Championship days. Also, they were both among the squad's five best performers last season according to WhoScored as they started 53 league games combined, illustrating their importance to the team.

If they could return to action in the next few weeks, along with Patrick Bamford, there is no reason why Marcelo Bielsa's side can't have a strong finish to the season.

In other news, Leeds have been backed to sign a Championship player; it isn't Lewis O'Brien. Find out who it is here.