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Joe Donnohue

Marcelo Bielsa confirms return to fitness for Illan Meslier ahead of Newcastle trip

Leeds United are boosted by the return of Illan Meslier to the matchday squad this week ahead of their fixture with Newcastle United.

The Whites have not completed the double over Newcastle since 1976 but face a golden opportunity to do so this Tuesday.

Bielsa referred to "corrections" following his side's 1-0 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion last time out, suggesting the ten day break between games had been utilised well.

"Meslier has resolved his health issues," Bielsa confirmed rather succinctly, before adding that Robin Koch and Gaetano Berardi were still sidelined.

Similarly, he did give some hope to those wishing to see Gaetano Berardi make a full recovery, indicating that the Swiss defender would be re-joining the group for full training shortly.

Does no goals in three games worry Bielsa?

Earlier this season, Bielsa stated that February was the month in which Leeds hoped Berardi could make a return to the training pitch.

Bielsa's latest comments indicate that the defender is on track to meet that goal, thus bolstering Leeds' options.

Arguably an even greater boost is the return for Meslier who was pictured training with goalkeeping coach Carlos Abad in a video posted on Twitter last night.

Kiko Casilla had deputised for the Frenchman in the FA Cup defeat to Crawley Town and the Premier League loss to Brighton last weekend.

Bielsa's tone suggested Meslier could well be in line to feature from the start against Newcastle United, but he was not drawn to comment on the specifics of his team selection.

With a week to go until the January transfer window closes, Bielsa commented on speculation, stating he did not anticipate any new faces.

"I'm happy with the squad we have. I think we can finish the season with it."

Bielsa also discussed Adam Forshaw's potential return to the pitch in future, in response to rumour that he would not have the opportunity to do so after more than a year out of action.

"The problem with Forshaw is a little longer [than Berardi]. He hasn't played for over a year now.

"The medical decisions taken recently permit us to think he will play again in the not too distant future," Bielsa stated encouragingly.

He commended the players who had stepped in and performed in Forshaw's place over the past twelve months before praising the injured midfielder's attitude.

"Forshaw is a professional who looks after his health very much.

"As soon as his injury problems are resolved he will be able to compete very quickly."

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