Adam Forshaw’s presence in Leeds United’s matchday squad on Sunday was certainly a welcome one. The midfielder didn’t get on the field against Crystal Palace but he was deemed fit enough to be named on the bench at Elland Road for the first time this calendar year after missing three full months of action with a hip issue.
His involvement came as something of a surprise due to Javi Gracia’s reluctance to discuss those occupying the club’s treatment room at Thorp Arch. Forshaw's return to action could be timely, though, as he strives to make an impact for the Whites over the last eight Premier League games of the season.
There’s plenty at stake for United, of course, with the threat of relegation beginning to loom large, particularly after their humiliating 5-1 drubbing on Sunday afternoon. However, his experience, poise and knowhow in the middle of the park could potentially make him a valuable tool for Gracia in the run-in as the Spaniard looks to lead United to survival.
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It’s been a season to forget for the Liverpudlian so far. A series of niggling injuries have severely restricted his game time and as a result he has made just five league appearances.
Just two of those have been starts, with solid performances coming in games against Manchester City and Newcastle United over the festive period. The midfielder was arguably Leeds’ best against the champions, using the ball well and working hard in an attempt to restrict the chances they created under the lights at Elland Road.
He played his part a few days later, too, as Leeds dug deep to keep Newcastle United at bay on New Year’s Eve before being replaced at half-time on Tyneside with the issue that had kept him out until Sunday. Gracia will have been keeping a keen eye on his progress in training over the last few weeks and the head coach will be grateful for the added option his availability provides.
Tyler Adams’ injury left the Whites looking short in midfield with Weston McKennie and Marc Roca the only other recognised senior options. Forshaw’s fitness gives Gracia the ability to change that up when he deems it to be necessary and after Sunday’s showing that may even cross his mind ahead of next week’s game against Liverpool at Elland Road.
Of course, Forshaw’s contract situation cannot be ignored. The 31-year-old’s terms in West Yorkshire are due to expire at the end of the current campaign and details of a potential new deal have not emerged, meaning this Premier League run-in could be the last contribution he makes in Leeds colours.
Whether that is to be the case or not his return to fitness allows him the opportunity make a difference for Gracia's side during the run-in, prove his worth and end what has been an otherwise miserable campaign on a real high.
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