Leeds United’s defensive ranks are seeing a welcome recovery, as Max Wöber, who underwent knee surgery earlier in the season, has been selected for Austria’s squad ahead of the November international break. His return to international duty suggests he’s close to full fitness, offering a timely boost to Leeds’ backline.
The club approaches this break cautiously, hoping to avoid the wave of injuries that plagued them in October, especially in the midfield and defense. With Wöber’s return, Leeds gains a reliable option as they look to keep their squad as fit as possible for the demanding months ahead.
Max Wöber’s injury setback, which occurred during international duty earlier in the season, played a significant role in Leeds United’s decision to dip into the free agent market for Josuha Guilavogui. Wöber’s meniscus trouble, which ultimately required surgery, left the club with a weakened defense and in urgent need of reinforcements. The surgery, confirmed at the end of September, sidelined the Austrian defender, creating a gap in Leeds’ backline that needed to be filled swiftly.
Max Wöber has not yet played since recovering from his knee surgery but made his first appearance in the matchday squad against Plymouth, where he was named on the bench. Now, in a major boost for both him and Leeds United, the 26-year-old has been included in the Austria squad for next week’s Nations League fixtures against Kazakhstan and Slovenia. This marks a significant step in his recovery, with Wöber’s return to international duty signaling his progression toward full fitness.
This call-up is a significant boost for Max Wöber, as it provides him with a solid opportunity to regain match sharpness following his knee surgery. Leeds United will be hoping that he gets valuable minutes during the Nations League fixtures, as his return to full fitness will be crucial for the club’s defensive options in the upcoming months. Wöber’s recovery and potential performances for Austria could provide the confidence and momentum needed for him to re-establish himself in Leeds’ starting XI.
For most Leeds United players on international duty, the club will be hoping they aren’t pushed too hard and can return to Elland Road without any injuries. Given the team’s injury struggles this season, especially in key positions, Leeds will be praying for a safe international break, with no setbacks for players like Wöber, Tyler Adams, or any others involved. The priority will be ensuring they come back fully fit and ready to contribute in the upcoming fixtures.
In Wöber’s case, Leeds United would ideally like to see him get as much game time as possible during the international break to regain full match fitness. With the current starting centre-backs, Liam Cooper and Pascal Struijk, both fit and playing regularly, Wöber faces a challenge in breaking back into the starting lineup at Leeds. Therefore, getting valuable minutes with Austria is the perfect opportunity for him to build match sharpness and push closer to full fitness, ensuring he’s ready to compete for a spot in the starting XI when he returns.