Daniel Farke will have a few concerns going into Saturday’s game against Fulham, as Leeds United look to build on their impressive start to the Premier League campaign.
Four points from three games is an excellent start, but things can change quickly in the Premier League, and Leeds need to build on that. But Daniel Farke is set to be without goalkeeper Lucas Perri on Saturday.
It is yet to be confirmed by Leeds, but reports say that Perri has picked up an injury. Karl Darlow is set to come in for the Brazilian, while Ethan Ampadu will also be hoping to be a part of the squad at Fulham.
Ao Tanaka is expected to miss out, while Ilia Gruev may have picked up a knock while with Bulgaria. But another concern on Farke’s mind will be Dan James, and the winger’s poor start to the 2025-26 season.
Daniel Farke during Leeds' clash against Newcastle.
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
Wales took on Canada on Tuesday night in Swansea. The perfect stage for James. His boyhood club and stadium, against a manager who forced him out of Leeds to go and join Saturday’s opponents Fulham.
James will have been relishing the opportunity to exact revenge on Marsch. Yet, James struggled again, as he has in the first three Premier League games. He missed a glorious chance to score when it was still 0-0.
Dan James in action against Canada.
Photo by Athena Pictures/Getty Images
Farke has got to be concerned about James’ form and in the Premier League, he cannot wait around for players to finally come good. Welsh outlet Y Clwb Pel Droed gave James a rating of 5/10 for his display.
“Another player who failed to impress for Wales, struggling to make a major impact on the game despite his pace as ever being difficult for any opponent he faces,” they reported, on struggling winger James.
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Who starts out wide for Leeds United away at Fulham?
Farke has five options, all of which are expected to be fit. Noah Okafor was a “major doubt” for the clash against Newcastle and remained an unused sub, but has now had the international break to get fit again.
There is every chance that Okafor is given his first Premier League start. An £18m addition, Leeds fans are yet to see what all the fuss is about. But Farke may be more pragmatic in an away Premier League game.
Leeds’ form in London is well-renowned. Perhaps, the experience of Jack Harrison, combined with the excitement of Willy Gnonto could be the way to go. James’ place in the side is very much, under threat.