Leeds face injury blow as in-form Rodrigo suffers a suspected dislocated shoulder against Everton

Rodrigo’s excellent start to the Premier League season has been interrupted after the Leeds striker picked up a painful shoulder injury against Everton on Tuesday night.

The Spain international was forced off in the first half after colliding with Jordan Pickford while attempting to take the ball past him. 

Rodrigo was clearly in need of help immediately as he gestured to the physio, and was eventually helped off while supporting his apparently-dislocated shoulder with his shirt and taking an oxygen pen to ease the pain.

Leeds striker Rodrigo was forced off with a suspected dislocated shoulder on Tuesday

It came after the Spanish striker collided with Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford 

It will come as a huge blow to Leeds, as the 31-year-old had been in startling form coming into the game.

He had picked up four goals in as many games, and was the liveliest player on the pitch in the half-hour before he was forced off against Everton.

Jesse Marsch was unsure of the severity of the injury when he spoke after the match. He said: ‘We are hopeful Rodrigo is not too bad. It is one of those where the shoulder pops out.’ 

His absence may be eased slightly by the return of Patrick Bamford from injury

Leeds managed to snatch a point in Rodrigo’s absence on Tuesday, and may have hoped for more after being the better side for much of the second half.

While the striker will be sorely missed, Patrick Bamford’s return from injury will be a positive for the Elland Road faithful. 

He scored 17 goals in the club’s first season back in the top flight and could be a vital cog in a team that creates good chances.

Leeds are next in action against Brentford on Saturday.