Every word Daniel Farke said on injured Leeds United trio, FA Cup dream & Lucas Perri conundrum ahead of Derby
Daniel Farke will speak to the media this evening as Leeds United prepare to face Derby County in the FA Cup.
Leeds United kick off their 2025/26 FA Cup campaign this weekend and ahead of a third-round trip to Derby County, Daniel Farke will speak with the media later today.
The Whites can enjoy a much-needed break from their relentless Premier League schedule, having seen a seven-game unbeaten run ended in devastating fashion on Wednesday. Farke’s side took the lead on three separate occasions at Newcastle United before conceding in the 102nd minute to lose 4-3.
Leeds went to St James’ Park without Sean Longstaff and Jayden Bogle, both of whom have missed games while managing calf issues in recent weeks. There is a chance the pair could be deemed fit to feature at Pride Park on Sunday, with Farke expected to provide a fitness update on his squad.
Daniel James still feels a way off returning to action but his compatriot, Joe Rodon, was back from an ankle ligament injury at Newcastle earlier than expected. The centre-back was replaced with a little cramp late on at St James’ Park and hopefully further assessment has shown it is nothing more.
One would imagine Rodon isn’t risked regardless, with rotation expected for the FA Cup clash given how physically demanding the past few weeks have been on Farke’s men. A position of particular intrigue is goalkeeper, with Lucas Perri likely feeling he could have done better with a decisive goal for the second game running.
Farke admitted Matheus Cunha’s leveller for Manchester United last weekend shouldn't have even been a chance and after full-time on Wednesday, admitted Perri should have saved Barnes’ winner having got a touch. Once again, calls are growing for Leeds’ first-choice to be dropped and Karl Darlow come in, as happened towards the end of last season.
Daniel Farke on Leeds United goalkeeper dilemma
Darlow will be expected to start in goal at Pride Park this weekend and Farke will almost certainly be quizzed on the Welshman’s chances of usurping Perri as first-choice. The Leeds boss isn’t one to switch things up too hastily but after twice criticising the summer arrival in the past week, he could have a decision to make.
There will be rotation further up the pitch as well, with Sunday’s FA Cup trip an opportunity for those on the fringes to get some minutes and make a positive impression. Among them are Joel Piroe, Willy Gnonto, Jack Harrison and Sam Byram while there might also be a chance for academy players to step up.
Regarding Piroe, the YEP reported this week that while Leeds are not actively looking to sell the Dutchman, internal discussions may need to be held if a suitable offer arrives. Farke could be quizzed on his personal stance again and asked whether mid-season exits could happen.
Farke has also pinpointed the end of their three-game Premier League week as the point at which he’d be happier talking transfers and with that moment arriving, it’s unlikely he’ll get through a whole press conference without being pressed on potential targets. How much he decided to tell us is another matter altogether, however.
Daniel Farke is due to hold his pre-derby County press conference at 4pm this evening. Stay tuned for live updates below...