Daniel Farke drops huge Ethan Ampadu injury bombshell as Leeds United prepare for Norwich City

Club captain Ethan Ampadu is unlikely to play again until January due to a serious knee injury. The versatile Wales international suffered the knock in the first half of Saturday's 3-0 win over Coventry City.

Ampadu tried to carry on but was forced off in the 41st minute of the Elland Road clash and replaced in midfield by Ao Tanaka. Japan international Tanaka is in pole position to make his first Whites start when they visit Carrow Road tomorrow night.

Speaking at his press briefing today, boss Daniel Farke confirmed Ampadu has damaged his lateral ligament. "The doctors have recommended conservative treatment so doesn’t need surgery," said Farke. "It's a big blow for us but it's something we have to adapt to it."

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Tottenham Hotspur loanee Manor Solomon remains on the sidelines due to a back injury. The wide man has not featured since the home defeat to Burnley.

Max Wober (knee), Daniel James (hamstring) and Isaac Schmidt (glute) are also unavailable for selection. Defender Wober will have surgery tomorrow and will be out of action for six weeks.

"We have a few problems but this is what happens during the season," said Farke. "We have to find some other solutions."

The Whites head to Norfolk in good spirits, having recorded four wins from their past five outings to move up to fifth in the Championship.

Stephen Martin will be the man in the middle for Tuesday's tussle. It will be the first time the Staffordshire-based official has taken charge of a United fixture since March when Farke's side beat Millwall 2-0 to go top of the table.