Leeds United’s focus this weekend is on getting back to winning ways and against what looks to be a relegation rival in Wolves.
Leeds’ return to Premier League action brought a gutting last-minute defeat away at Fulham on Saturday, as Gabriel Gudmundsson’s header diverted into his own goal deep in added time.
Daniel Farke has little time to ponder what could have been at Craven Cottage, with focus now firmly on an early six-pointer away at Wolves.
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Daniel Farke shares injury update for Leeds United’s Dan James following Fulham loss
A lot has been said about Leeds’ attack so far, scoring just once in four games thanks to a controversial penalty against Everton in game one.
It was the same story against Fulham with a strong defence and lack of killer instinct up top. Something which has to change this week at Molineux.
Injury concerns pre-match for Joel Piroe and Lukas Nmecha weren’t helped when substitute Dan James took a knock as well. Brought on in the 77th minute, James was then off 12 minutes later for Willy Gnonto.
Daniel James now a new injury doubt for Leeds United ahead of the trip to Wolves (REUTERS/Isabel Infantes)
“The plan was to use a bit more rested Daniel James on the counter with his pace to make things happen,” Farke told the YEP after full-time. “Unlucky he got a hit into his body and we were forced to substitute him off. Very unlucky development and I hope it’s not too bad. I hope it’s nothing major so he’s available pretty soon.”
According to Premier Injuries’ Ben Dinnery, this setback for James sees him a 50% chance for the weekend against Wolves at Molineux.
Elsewhere, another week of recovery for Ao Tanaka will likely see him back up to speed. Meanwhile, Lucas Perri’s two-game absence keeps him out on Saturday.
Dan James injury update means Willy Gnonto surely starts this weekend
There’s plenty of debate now about how Farke fixes this dry attacking setup, with no open play goals so far.
For me, Willy Gnonto borders on being a non-negotiable now alongside Noah Okafor out wide and Dominic Calvert-Lewin up front.
The goals will come if Leeds can get that front three settled together. Then, using players like James on the break could be devastating.
Wolves is already something of a must-win.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!