[ad_pod ]Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa faced the media in a press conference on Thursday. His title-chasing Whites side take on Bristol City this weekend, and the Argentine coach gave an update on which first team stars would be unavailable for this fixture.18-year-old wing sensation Jack Clarke appears to have been ruled out of Saturday’s visit to Ashton Gate Stadium.

What he said

Clarke has been out of action since being taken ill whilst on the bench during the Whites’ win over Middlesbrough in February.Â

Are fans being priced out of the Championship as well as the Premier League? The angry Bolton fan in the video below certainly believes so…

As quoted by Leeds’ official Twitter account, when asked if the teenager would be ready to return in time to face the Robins, Bielsa said: “He’s well, he’s fit. He will play next week in the U23s game, and probably be available after this game to be with the group.â€

A full recording of the press conference has been made available by the Yorkshire Evening Post.

What this means

Whilst Leeds look set to have to battle on without Clarke a little while longer yet, his imminent return to the fold is great news.

The Elland Road faithful can look forward to cheering on the exciting youngster again soon, as Bielsa’s comments that “he’s well, he’s fit” are of course the four key words, meaning it’s only a matter of match fitness keeping him out for now.

The timing of Clarke’s return is also brilliant, as the race for promotion to the Premier League is likely to go down to the wire.

Fresh legs and quality squad depth will be essential throughout this crucial time. Having Clarke back in contention gives Bielsa a valuable extra option to consider when figuring out a way of managing his squad throughout this hectic, but all-important, period.