Leeds United boss Jesse Marsch: 'Liam Cooper is available to face Chelsea'

Leeds United head coach Jesse Marsch has confirmed that captain Liam Cooper will be available for Wednesday's Premier League clash against Chelsea at Elland Road.

The 30-year-old did not feature in last weekend's 2-1 defeat at Arsenal due to discomfort with his knee, despite Marsch telling reporters in the build-up that he would be fit to play at the Emirates Stadium.

However, the American has since provided a positive update regarding the defender's fitness ahead of their crucial home encounter with Chelsea.

"Liam Cooper last time I said he was going to be ready to play, we thought he was going to be available then he had a little reaction leading up to the match," March told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday.

"We felt it was prudent he didn't push himself. I believe now he trained a bit yesterday that after that and going into this next phase, he is better and will be available tomorrow."

Marsch has also spoken about striker Patrick Bamford and his recovery from a foot injury, adding: "Patrick Bamford is on the pitch doing individual work. Another one that's day to day, we're about on track. He won't be available for tomorrow but the rest is all the same."

Leeds currently sit in the relegation zone following their defeat at Arsenal and Everton's victory at Leicester City, but Marsch's men require at least a point against Chelsea to climb out of the bottom three, which would see Burnley slip down to 18th place.