Centerback Scratched With a Foot Injury Amongst Leeds Rumors
Mark McKenzie's foot injury forced him out of Toulouse's commanding 5-1 triumph over Nice on Saturday, a setback that underscored the United States international's value to the French side while transfer speculation continues to swirl around his future.
The 26-year-old center-back was initially included in Toulouse's squad for the Ligue 1 clash but was ruled out due to a foot injury. In his absence, manager Carles Martinez Novell adjusted his back three, with Djibril Sidibé deputizing alongside the returning Rasmus Nicolaisen, who had recovered from an ankle problem sustained against Lens, with Charlie Cresswell in the middle.
Despite missing McKenzie's defensive presence, Toulouse delivered a commanding performance, climbing to eighth in the table with 26 points and keeping their hopes of European qualification very much alive. The victory was built on clinical finishing and defensive organization, the latter being a quality that McKenzie has consistently provided throughout the campaign.
The defender's injury comes at a particularly intriguing moment, as reports have emerged linking him with a potential January move to Leeds United. According to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook, the Premier League club eight points above the drop zone is interested in securing McKenzie's services for approximately £5 million, though Crook notably deleted his initial report, casting doubt on the claim's reliability.
McKenzie has featured 16 times in Ligue 1 this season, typically operating on the right side of Toulouse's three-man defense. His familiarity with playing in a back three could prove attractive to Leeds manager Daniel Farke, particularly given Sebastiaan Bornauw's recurring injury issues. The timing of this injury raises questions about McKenzie's immediate availability should any transfer materialize, though, at 26 years old and with full international experience, he represents an intriguing option for clubs seeking a top-flight-ready defensive reinforcement ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
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