Ilia Gruev could not feature against Sheffield Wednesday as he awaited a VISA appointment, while Jaidon Anthony was signed so late on transfer deadline day that he was not registered in time for the Elland Road visit of the Owls. Glen Kamara, who came off the bench for a Whites debut in the last outing prior to the break, has had international action with Finland and moved closer to full match fitness after a lack of involvement with Rangers in pre-season.
All three men will be under consideration for Sunday’s trip to Millwall and Farke was also hopeful of returns from injury for Sam Byram and Daniel James. It’s likely that Patrick Bamford, Junior Firpo and Liam Cooper might have to wait a little longer to make their respective comebacks, while Stuart Dallas remains the club’s longest-term absentee.
The chances of Farke ever having a fully fit squad to choose from are slim – it was not the way of it for Marcelo Bielsa, Jesse Marsch, Javi Gracia or Sam Allardyce – but what is noticeable about the current manager’s squad is the depth and genuine competition for places in several areas. If Farke had all his wide men available then there’s a headache to be had and the battles for the right-back, left-back, left-sided centre-back and central midfield slots will be fascinating.
When you look at the squad as a whole and attempt to pick 20 to fill a team sheet, the difficulty of the task is refreshing and at odds with scenarios that have faced Farke’s predecessors. Very good Championship options could miss out entirely this season on occasion.
In the hypothetical ideal world where everyone is fit and available, here’s a look at what might just be Farke’s strongest starting XI and substitutes bench.
13. Luke Ayling (sub)
Still vital. If Cooper isn't in the side you'd probably want Ayling in there to add leadership and character. He won't take Spence's arrival lightly and having seen off Kristensen will back himself to do the same. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
14. Pascal Struijk (sub)
At some stage Struijk is going to take over from Cooper and become Leeds' first choice at left-sided centre-back. His importance to the way they play out from the back makes it a very close call. Breathing down the captain's neck. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
15. Stuart Dallas (sub)
If he gets fit again and can perform to anywhere near the level he showed in the Premier League he'll be pushing for a start but even as an option from the bench provides solutions to a variety of possible problems. Photo: BEN STANSALL
16. Ilia Gruev (sub)
The Bulgarian international will likely provide cover for Ethan Ampadu but could also play as an eight if needs be, but it doesn't feel like he'll walk into the team. Photo: CHRISTOF STACHE
17. Archie Gray (sub)
It wouldn't be a shock if Farke stuck with Gray at Millwall because he has been so good and perhaps he just keeps his place. At times, though, the nous of an older head has been needed. He'll play a lot but minutes will be managed Photo: Bruce Rollinson
18. Daniel James (sub)
The winger's work ethic will be vital, when Leeds need to shore up their left flank, and his pace will be when they need to stretch teams. He should still see plenty of game time and will get starts. Photo: Alex Caparros