Douglas injury opens door for Howson
Leeds United's Jonathan Douglas faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after twisting his knee in the dying stages of Saturday's match at Walsall.
The midfielder has had a scan but faces a second examination next week and assistant manager Dave Bassett said: "It won't be a couple of weeks, it will be longer than that."
Douglas, who has been acting captain in the absence of Alan Thompson, looks certain to miss the whole of the busy Christmas and New Year period and it could stretch on well beyond that.
Bassett added: "He's had this injury before. The surgeon will take another look at him early next week and decide whether or not he needs surgery.
"It's hard to confirm the full extent of the damage at this stage but we just hope Dougie will be back sooner rather than later."
With Douglas sidelined and veteran Alan Thompson only just on his way back from injury, this could prove a breakthrough period for Jonathan Howson.
Manager Dennis Wise recently raved about the youngster, saying he should be in the England under-21 side.
Wise said: "I'm sure in time he will be the main central midfielder at the club. He's still only a baby but he's learning all the time. He's got a good brain, is athletic, brave and can see a pass. He's a fantastic little player."
thetelegraphandargus.co.uk
