How Leeds United could cope without key man plus Middlesbrough striker receives boost

Phillips was forced off with a calf injury in the first half of Saturday’s 1-0 win over Reading, meaning White was moved further forward by head coach Marcelo Bielsa.

White may have to play in midfield again when Leeds travel to Middlesbrough on Wednesday but says he can adapt.

“We work on it in training,” White told LUTV. “We do drills where I step into midfield, so for me to slot in there now is much easier.”

Boro haven’t won for eight league games and are just three points above the relegation zone, yet White isn’t taking anything for granted.

“We know every Championship game is tough,” he added. "Middlesbrough are fighting to stay up, so it will be a hard game."

Shotton looking forward to Riverside clashes

Boro will be looking to bounce back following Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at relegation rivals Barnsley.

The Teessiders were booed off by away supporters at Oakwell and now face back-to-back home games against promotion contenders Leeds and Nottingham Forest.

Defender Ryan Shotton is happy about the quick turnaround, though, and is desperate for a reaction.

“I am excited for Wednesday because there is no better game to bounce back in,” said Shotton. “To do that and then to beat Forest as well, I am really looking forward to it and hopefully we can get the results we need to kickstart us again.”

Walker settling in at Crewe

Boro striker Stephen Walker scored his first goal for League Two side Crewe on Saturday after joining The Alex on loan in January.

Following a 2-0 win over Macclesfield, Walker told the club’s website: “Everyone has helped me settle quickly and the fans have been great.

“When they sing my name, it gives me a real boost and helps the confidence, so I wanted to show my appreciation when I scored. It came after half an hour and I got booked, but it was well worth it!

“I am part of the club now and I want to be a part of the Crewe history.”