Head coach Daniel Farke has given a Leeds injury update and discussed the importance of finding a consistent rhythm ahead of their English Premier League match against Crystal Palace at Elland Road on Saturday, December 20.
Following a positive run of results, which included a 3-1 win over Chelsea and a draw with reigning champions Liverpool, Leeds travelled to London and earned a hard-fought point against Brentford in Gameweek 16.
Farke says the recent momentum has been encouraging, but he urged caution as his side prepares for the visit of Oliver Glasner’s Eagles.
Leeds injury updates
On the injury front, Daniel James remains sidelined with an ongoing issue, but there is relief that he will not require surgery.
“No surgery so thank God. It is a conservative route but we spoke about that it will still be about eight weeks in total that he would be out before he can then return back to team training,” he told the media.
“Then let’s see how quick he is and also back to full speed and that he can then join in the games.”
Midfielder Sean Longstaff is also progressing in his rehabilitation.
“With Sean, he is progressing in his rehab, also doing individual stuff on the pitch. Also running stuff and also a little bit with the ball,” Farke confirmed.
“But the first step will be for him to be reintegrated in team training. And then he needs, of course, a few training sessions to be back available.
“So he is not back in team training. So for that, we decided then also from game to game and from day to day.”
Lukas Nmecha will miss the Crystal Palace game as well, with Farke describing him as “still a bit symptomatic.”
The road ahead
As a result, Leeds’ group of available players remains largely unchanged from their recent fixtures.
Speaking about his squad’s overall form, Farke emphasised how crucial it is for players to find belief in their bodies and confidence on the pitch.
He highlighted the example of striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin to Sky Sports, explaining that consistency in training and match play has helped the forward build momentum since joining the club. Finding that “good rhythm” has been key to Calvert-Lewin’s recent performances.
Farke also paid respect to Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, praising his work this season and noting the quality he has brought to the Eagles.
“He’s doing a fantastic job, not just with Crystal Palace, even before in the Bundesliga. Quality is always defined by performance over a long-term period and this is what Oliver is delivering right now. Incredible job at Crystal Palace and yeah, fantastic manager.”
With a vital home fixture on the horizon, Leeds will aim to continue their improved Premier League form despite ongoing injury challenges.
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