Another Leeds United player is now an injury doubt alongside the absence of Patrick Bamford ahead of the Championship playoff final this weekend, according to an update from BBC journalist Adam Pope.

Bamford ruled out of playoff final

The Whites are gearing up for one of the biggest matches in world football as they prepare to face Southampton for a spot back in the Premier League. Both teams were relegated from the top flight last year.

The two sides will clash at Wembley on Sunday afternoon in a game that is too close to call, following their dominant performances against Norwich City and West Brom in the semi-finals. Leeds convincingly defeated the Canaries in the second leg at Elland Road earlier this month, delivering a stunning performance and winning 4-0 on the night.

While Bamford’s absence is the most significant news leading up to the showdown in London, it appears that another key player for Leeds is also doubtful for the game.

Leeds have another injury doubt before Southampton

Taking to X after Farke’s pre-match press conference, BBC reporter Pope confirmed that Sam Byram is a Leeds injury doubt for the Southampton game, potentially joining Bamford on the sidelines: “Bamford injured and will not feature. Hoping Byram is ok but it’ll be a late call.”

Not having Byram available for such a crucial game could be another significant headache for Farke, even though the Whites managed well without him in the second leg against Norwich.

The 30-year-old last played in the first leg at Carrow Road, where Farke’s men secured a goalless draw. Byram has made 34 appearances in the Championship this season, 25 of which were starts. The Leeds manager is well aware of the defender’s importance, having stated earlier in the campaign:

“I’m pleased that he was there each and every second on the pitch because there was this one situation when we needed his experience, quality in this position, awareness level. He’s quite important for us.”

If Byram is unable to play or is only fit enough for the substitutes’ bench, Leeds will likely field a back-line of Archie Gray, Joe Rodon, Ethan Ampadu, and Junior Firpo, as they did in the home leg against Norwich.