Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak with Leeds badge insert
Credit: Imago
Evan Lloyd
Wed 27 August 2025 12:10, UK
Daniel Farke will be hoping for a strong response from his Leeds side against Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday.
Leeds were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday, 26 August, the home side winning on penalties after the match had ended 1-1 in normal time.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin missed a great chance in the closing stages of his Leeds debut, with the striker also missing a penalty in the shootout.
The loss is the latest blow in what has been a difficult week for Farke’s team, with the visit of Newcastle United offering a chance to bounce back.
Leeds were smashed 5-0 by Arsenal on Saturday, giving the Whites a harsh reminder of the Premier League’s quality after their opening day victory over Everton.
Daniel Farke
Credit: Imago
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Alexander Isak unlikely to feature vs Leeds
Anthony Gordon will be suspended when Leeds play Newcastle, after the forward was sent off for a late challenge on Virgil van Dijk on Monday.
Joelinton and Sandro Tonali are also unlikely to feature, with both players suffering injuries in the clash against Liverpool.
Newcastle are facing a difficult situation in attack going into the final stages of the transfer window.
Alexander Isak is still demanding a move to Liverpool this summer, and the Magpies have failed with several efforts to sign his replacement.
Newcastle United – Available forwards vs Leeds
Harvey Barnes
Anthony Elanga
Jacob Murphy
William Osula
That has forced Eddie Howe into makeshift solutions up front, with Gordon selected through the middle against the Reds.
But with the England international suspended, it will likely be 22-year-old striker William Osula picked to go against the Leeds backline.
Newcastle have attempted to change Isak’s mind, but the Daily Mirror has reported in its print edition (27 August, pg 53) that even if the Swede is reintegrated, the Leeds game would surely come too soon.
Howe and the Magpies are said to be “desperate” for reinforcements before the transfer deadline.
Leeds can take advantage of Newcastle issues
Saturday’s game will see Leeds return to Elland Road for the first time since their dramatic opening day victory over Everton.
And the home fans will be ready for the visit of Newcastle, who appear vulnerable after Monday’s late loss to Liverpool.
The Magpies could well present an opportunity for Farke’s first big scalp of the season, with Leeds expected to want to bounce back from Tuesday’s disappointing loss.
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