Leeds United’s bid for Premier League survival comes under the microscope again on Friday night as Daniel Farke’s men take on relegation rivals West Ham United at Elland Road.
A massive game for both sides, with Daniel Farke and Nuno Espirito Santo watching their sides lose 2-0 to another side likely to be in the bottom five, last time out. Burnley beat Leeds at Turf Moor on Saturday.
A disastrous result for Leeds, who dominated the match. Farke’s men boasted 69% possession, had 19 shots and an XG north of 2.5. Micah Richards said Leeds were “excellent”, but just could not score a goal.
Burnley had four shots and scored twice. Meanwhile, West Ham were hammered at home by Brentford, when in truth it could have been three or four. Leeds fans were stunned at just how bad West Ham were.
Daniel Farke gestures during Leeds United FC v Burnley FC - Sky Bet Championship
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David Seaman says Leeds can beat West Ham on Friday night
West Ham have only managed four points from their eight Premier League games so far, and Leeds have certainly been more impressive at Elland Road so far. A winnable game for both sides this weekend.
Speaking to TalkSPORT (22/10, 9.15AM), Arsenal icon David Seaman says he thinks Leeds can beat West Ham on Friday night and believes Leeds have made a better start than he expected under Farke.
“It’s not bad, it’s better than I thought it would be. I went to the Arsenal-Leeds game, I wore my half and half scarf with pride, so don’t give me any stick! So yeah, it’s a good start, a decent start I’d say,” he said.
“It’s all about staying above the bottom three. Massive game [v West Ham], but one we can win. Go and get the points, become a little bit safe, and things become easier. A bit of confidence and momentum.”
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The injury status of Leeds’ squad ahead of West Ham clash
Nothing will be confirmed until Farke speaks to the media later this week. But the German is expected to welcome back several players from injury, while a couple of attacking options remain doubtful for Friday.
Before Burnley, Farke said Willy Gnonto would be back in training this week after a hernia operation. The Italian’s calf problems have cleared up. However, Noah Okafor is struggling with an adductor injury.
Last week, Fabrizio Romano said Okafor would be out for 7-10 days. Dan James has made a miraculous recovery from his ankle injury and played 30 minutes against Burnley, and he could be in line for a start.
Lucas Perri returned to Leeds training last week. Farke said he lacked the fitness to start against Burnley, but he could come in against West Ham while Harry Gray is expected to be back in training this week.