Leeds' Robin Koch to Undergo Knee Surgery Following Chelsea Injury

Leeds United defender Robin Koch requires surgery on his knee after aggravating an injury in Saturday's loss to Chelsea.

The German defender was replaced early in the first half following a collision, and the club have confirmed an operation is needed to solve the problem.

Koch initially picked up a knee problem on his debut against Liverpool on the opening weekend of the 2020/21 season, but was able to play through the pain barrier until the defeat at Stamford Bridge.

He had played in every game for the Whites in the Premier League this season following his summer move from Freiburg, becoming a crucial figure at Elland Road under Marcelo Bielsa.

Koch has also made four appearances for the German national team this season. He unfortunately played 90 minutes in Die Mannschaft's humiliating 6-0 loss to Spain in the UEFA Nations League in November.

Leeds have not put a timeframe on when Koch is expected to return, but they were bolstered at the weekend by the return of fellow centre-back Diego Llorente.

The Spaniard replaced Koch for his debut having missed much of the season with his own injury problems, though Leeds are still short at the back.

Club captain Liam Cooper is their only other fit centre-back, and has found the step up to Premier League level more challenging than most of his teammates.

England international Kalvin Phillips is capable of playing in defence, but would be sorely missed in midfield should be required to start deeper.

An injury crisis is the last thing Leeds need heading into the busy festive schedule, with the Whites taking on West Ham on Friday evening. They then host Newcastle next Wednesday, before a tough trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United for the first time since promotion from the Championship.

Leeds currently sit 14th in the Premier League, eight points clear of the relegation zone.