Leeds United fans have been reacting to the news that Robin Koch will undergo surgery on his knee.
The centre-back limped off in Leeds' defeat to Chelsea at the weekend after just nine minutes, being replaced by Diego Llorente.
It has now been confirmed that the defender needs surgery to fix a knee problem he has played with since the start of the season - but that he hopes to be back by the spring.
The news has prompted mixed reactions from Leeds fans, some who feel the squad has enough depth to cope with Koch's absence, and others who are keen to see a new player brought in.
With the Euros coming up at the end of the season, Koch is keen to return to action in time for the March international break so he can remain in Germany boss Joachim Low's plans.
Speaking to Bild, Koch said a decision was made at the start of the season to postpone surgery until it became clear he could no longer play on.
He said: "At the beginning of the season we decided together with the doctors that I could play like this for the time being. But it was clear to us that sooner or later we would have to perform the procedure.
"The time came after the game against Chelsea. In view of a very important year for me in 2021, it is now crucial to be able to be back on the field in spring."
Koch was set to undergo surgery in London on Tuesday morning before immediately beginning rehab on Wednesday, meaning hopes are high he will be able to play for the Whites again this season.
