Liam Cooper is 'buzzing to be back' as Jesse Marsch returned his captain back to the starting XI for the first-time since December. The Scottish international was available against Wolves before the international break but Marsch chose not to gamble on his fitness, leaving him on the bench.
Had Leeds not had so many injuries in that fixture, he perhaps would have made his return as a substitute but instead his return comes from the start against Southampton.
In an interview shared by Leeds' official Twitter account, Cooper said: "I'm absolutely buzzing to be back. It's been a long three-and-a-half months and some lonely days in the gym. This is what it's all about: getting yourself back out there, hopefully performing well and getting a positive result."
Read more: Jesse Marsch answers urgent Kalvin Phillips question as Leeds United team news confirmed
Leeds have struggled to put real daylight between themselves and the relegation battle this season. Cooper admitted that the team had found it difficult when asked about how the team felt getting to the 'business end' having just won two crucial fixtures against Norwich and Wolves.
"We've not been at our best for parts of the season. Obviously the last two results have taken a little bit of pressure off but we just want to win the next game. "
Cooper also spoke about how the team were adapting under their new manager. He admitted they still had work to do to play the way that Marsch wanted them to play but felt that there were positive signs in the performances as well as the two recent wins.
He said: "I think you can see the improvements. We're a lot more together and we're enjoying it".
Whilst Cooper was deemed ready to start, Kalvin Phillips remained on the bench. However, Marsch did admit in his press conference this week that it would be the case that only one of the two would start, as neither would be expected to make it through 90 minutes.
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