Hulse injury blow

Leeds United striker Rob Hulse has suffered a pre-season setback after damaging his ankle ligaments in a friendly match.

Leeds were playing the first match of their Norwegian tour, but Hulse will now have to play 'catch-up' if he is to be ready in time for the new season.

The injury is a massive blow to the player personally, who has missed the last two pre-season periods through injury.

Leeds boss Kevin Blackwell confirmed to the club website: "Rob's going to be out for a couple of weeks now with ankle ligament damage.

"We will have it scanned when we get back to Leeds but for the meanwhile he's had it strapped-up and immobilised.

"We now have to work on getting Rob right for the games at the end of the month and hope he can build up his match fitness in those.

"It's a blow for Rob but fortunately as far as ankle ligament problems go, it's not serious and I'm certain he'll get a few full games under his belt before the season starts proper."

Hulse has been a key figure for Leeds since his £1.1 million transfer from West Brom, scoring six goals in 13 league starts for the club.