Ilia Gruev

Gruev is available for Sunday's clash against Crystal Palace, according to coach Daniel Farke, per Leeds Live. "Ilia, important for him to get nearly 90 mins with U21s. He is available for the weekend."

Analysis: Gruev is now available for the senior squad after playing 85 minutes for Leeds U21s on Sunday in his first competitive appearance since suffering a knee injury in April. He also provided an assist during the 4-4 draw with Middlesbrough, completing a substantial workload after several weeks of full training. His return gives Leeds another option in central midfield, though his minutes could still be managed following his lengthy absence.

Aug 24, 2026

Could return Sunday

Gruev (knee) has returned to full team training but will not be available for Tuesday's EFL Cup clash against Nottingham Forest, according to coach Daniel Farke. "Ilia was part-integrated last week and is fully back in team training now. No reaction with his knee, looks good on the training pitch. This game is a bit too soon for him."

Analysis: Gruev has progressed to full team training without experiencing any reaction in his knee after initially being partially reintegrated last week. Tuesday's cup match comes too soon for the midfielder, who has been sidelined since undergoing treatment for a meniscus injury in April. Gruev could instead be available for Sunday's Premier League clash against Brentford if he continues to train without setbacks.