In an exclusive report by the Yorkshire Evening Post on April 5th, Joe Donnohue revealed that Leeds United midfielder Ilia Gruev is unlikely to feature in the starting lineup for their upcoming Championship clash against Coventry City. Donnohue cited statements from manager Daniel Farke, who had suggested a possibility of Gruev’s return, but ultimately concluded that the Bulgarian is not yet fully fit to start.
“Despite Daniel Farke’s insistence the Bulgarian had a chance of making his return from injury against the Sky Blues, he won’t yet be fit enough to start from the off,” wrote Donnohue in his report.
Gruev, who has been sidelined since the March international break due to an injury sustained while representing Bulgaria, has left a notable gap in Leeds’ midfield. Archie Gray has been filling in for the 23-year-old, being shifted into midfield in Gruev’s absence.
Donnohue quoted his own report for the Yorkshire Evening Post, stating, “Ilia Gruev is unlikely to be passed fit enough to start this weekend which should see Gray remain in central midfield.”
Gruev’s absence has been keenly felt by Leeds United, with Donnohue noting, “It’s not an exaggeration to suggest that Gruev has quickly become one of the most important parts of this Leeds United team in recent months as the Bulgarian makes the Whites tick from midfield with his energetic style.”