Last Updated: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:06
Leeds have suffered a major setback prior to pre-season as Richard Naylor is a doubt for the opening game of the campaign.
The defender looks set to be out for around six weeks following surgery on his back this week which means he is unlikely to be fit for the home game with Exeter that kicks of the new season.
"Nayls went in for an op on his back this week," Simon Grayson told the club's website. "He struggled last year with it.
"He's been having treatment over summer, but after speaking to the specialist, it was decided for an operation.
"It is a blow because he's going to be out for six weeks or so which means he could miss start of the season. It might not be that long, but could be.
"It's a massive disappointment. He was a massive player for us last season, he was an inspiration on and off the pitch, and he's disappointed."