Leeds United head coach Neil Redfearn has vowed to take a cautious approach with midfielder Lewis Cook, saying he will not play the talent until he is pain free.
The youngster is currently sidelined with an ankle injury and Leeds have missed his influence in the centre of the park.
Redfearn knows Cook's importance at Elland Road, but is determined not to rush him back into action, with the midfielder only being considered for first team duty when he is pain free and fully fit to return.
Redfearn, asked about Cook, explained at a press conference: "Obviously we've got to monitor Lewis' injury because it's an ankle ligament strain. We've got a rough idea of the severity of it, but we've got to make sure Lewis is pain free before he comes back.
"He's still in the [protective] boot at the moment, so in the short term he's still not available."
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And the Leeds head coach stressed that Cook is an important player under him at Elland Road.
"Lewis is a really important player for us and he's had an outstanding season", Redfearn added.
Redfearn has trusted in a number of youngsters, including Cook, since taking charge of Leeds on a permanent basis earlier this term.
The 49-year-old has guided Leeds away from the Championship relegation zone and to the comfort of mid-table.
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