Leeds United journalist Joe Donnohue has been left buzzing over some early team news that has now emerged involving Kalvin Phillips and Liam Cooper.
The Lowdown: Could they start?
Speaking in his pre-game press conference ahead of their match at home to Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, Jesse Marsch revealed (via Leeds Live) that both Phillips and Cooper are now 'in contention' to start:
"They're both in contention to start, they're both probably not 90 minutes but we're close. I don't think we can start both of them but we'll think very carefully. I've spoken with both already and they're feeling good and looking better. We're really excited to have them in the group. They can have a massive impact."
Phillips has not featured at Elland Road since same as Cooper, whose last games were the 2-2 draw at home to Brentford in the top flight.
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The Latest: Donnohue reacts
Taking to Twitter after Marsch's self-professed "massive" news, Whites journalist Donnohue buzzed upon hearing the news that both players could start against the Saints:
"That's more like it. Cooper and Phillips in contention to start."
The Verdict: Big boost
It would certainly be a big boost for the Yorkshire club even to be able to start one of Phillips or Cooper, let alone potentially both.
They both rank in the top ten best-performing players for the Peacocks in the Premier League so far this term, despite being injured for large chunks of it, and both players add some much needed leadership and experience through the spine of the team.
Phillips ranks highly among his teammates of average tackles, interceptions, passes and long balls per match in the division (WhoScored), while Cooper has a similar impact on the squad, and being the captain, his role will be vital in helping them grind out the results needed in order to stay up.
In other news, find out which position LUFC are now expected to strengthen this summer here!