Farke Provides Injury Updates Ahead of Coventry City Clash
As Leeds United prepare for their upcoming match against Coventry City, manager Daniel Farke addressed the media with several important updates about the team.
Farke began with some unwelcome injury news, noting a few setbacks in the already lightweight squad. Manor Solomon will miss the game due to back problems that have affected his hamstrings. The hope is to have him back in time for the Norwich game, barring any complications. After a good start to the season, fans will be concerned this is the continuation of injury issues which have blighted him for the past two seasons.
Max Wöber’s situation is a bit more complicated. He suffered a training setback before the Cardiff City match and continues to have knee issues. The medical team is working diligently to find a
solution, but if no progress is made soon, surgery might be necessary, which would sideline him for several weeks. Dan James remains out of action and is expected to return after the next international break, although an earlier recovery would be a welcome bonus.
Pascal Struijk is another player facing fitness challenges, struggling with adductor issues. Struijk has been a colossus in defence this season and his passing out from the back has been up there with the best in the league. With Wöber also injured it could see Ethan Ampadu stepping back into defence, a role he played for the second half of last season. But it could mean a surprise debut for 19-year-old James Debayo, who Farke has “been very impressed with lately.” It seems only a matter of time before Debayo gets his chance.
Junior Firpo, who missed the early part of the week due to injury, has returned to training and is expected to be available for selection, provided there are no adverse reactions. Patrick Bamford also took a knock on Tuesday but has resumed training, and Farke is optimistic about his availability for the game. The biggest concern remains Pascal, who needs to complete Friday’s final training session to be deemed fit for the match.
Addressing the choice between Mateo Joseph and Joel Piroe, Farke explained that the decision often comes down to tactical needs – whether the team requires a more physical presence, pace, or technical skill. He expressed satisfaction with Joseph’s performances, highlighting his work rate and contributions, including three assists. While goal-scoring is essential, Farke emphasized that a combined contribution of 30 to 40 goals from the strikers would be ideal, regardless of who scores them.
