Leeds United handed injury blow vs Man City as Liam Cooper withdraws

Leeds United were dealt a blow prior to their clash against Manchester City on Saturday as captain Liam Cooper was forced to withdraw from the warm-up through injury.

The Scotland international was among the starters for Jesse Marsch's side but appeared to suffer a knee injury during the build-up. As a result, the skipper was replaced by Mateusz Klich.

Former Leeds striker Robbie Keane highlighted how big of a blow it was to lose their skipper, he told Sky Sports: "That's a massive blow. He’s been instrumental in the last few weeks of how solid Leeds have been defensively.

"He’s your captain and leader, so if he’s out of this game now, it could cause a lot of problems for Leeds."

READ MORE: Leeds vs Man City - LIVE

City's visit to Elland Road saw added importance for the hosts ahead of kick-off as Burnley pulled off a miraculous comeback to beat Watford. They moved five points clear of Everton in the relegation zone, leapfrogging the Whites in the process.

Pep Guardiola's side went into the game second after title-rivals Liverpool edged past Newcastle United in the early kick-off. The Reds sit two points, and five goals, better off at kick-off.

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