Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is under a mountain of pressure, but a miracle result against Manchester City on Saturday would change all that.
However, that has just become a whole lot harder. Leeds go to The Etihad having lost five of their six Premier League games away from home, the only anomaly being Leeds’ 3-1 win away at Wolves.
What is your prediction for Leeds v Man City:
Daniel Farke greets Pep Guardiola.
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
LeedsUnited.News understands that the 49ers are assessing Farke’s position. They are aware of the discontent among supporters, but they are also keen to avoid making any rash decisions with Farke.
Interestingly, reports have emerged on Thursday that Leeds admire both Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers, with the latter keen to take over from Farke. Now, Farke’s chances have been made harder.
Daniel Farke looks dejected after Leeds United v Aston Villa - Premier League
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Daniel Farke admits replacing injured Leeds duo is “tricky”
Speaking in Thursday’s press conference, Farke confirmed that Leeds would be without Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach for Saturday’s outing against Man City. Stach is observing concussion protocols.
Farke confirmed that Stach will be back in training on Sunday, while the Leeds manager also confirmed that Longstaff has picked up a calf issue. The former Newcastle man is sidelined for four to six weeks.
Discussing the absent duo, Farke said: “Yeah it’s a big loss for us. It’s costly, two key players, in top shape. It’s all a bit tricky. Once a player is not available, I don’t like to complain; I don’t like to give excuses.
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“It’s a chance for others; they have my backing. With all love and respect to my players, they don’t have the highest quality in this league; we have to fight. Not just against City, Newcastle, and Tottenham too.
“In every game, we have physically outperformed our opponents. We are not always perfect, tidy, but we always work hard. We have to add quality. I am confident we can add this without Sean and Anton.”
Daniel Farke shares details of Sean Longstaff’s injury
Daniel Farke has the chance to make history vs Pep Guardiola
Back in September 2019, Farke’s first season in the Premier League with Norwich City, the German was the mastermind behind a stunning 3-2 win over Man City at Carrow Road. A miracle result in a dismal season.
If Leeds manage to somehow beat City on Saturday, Farke would become the first manager to beat Pep with two different newly-promoted sides. But everything is stacked against Leeds and Farke on Saturday.
Leeds are not alone in missing two key midfielders, though. Man City will also be without Mateo Kovacic and Rodri, and that in itself could aid Leeds in their bid to produce a shock result and save Farke’s job.
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