Leeds United have a big game against Manchester City this weekend. The match has a lot at stake for the two teams involved, especially at this part of the season.
The Whites are hoping to get points on the board in search of securing their Premier League status for next season. They are in 15th place, but are not completely out of the water yet with 11 games to go. Pep Guardiola’s men are also in hot pursuit of Arsenal, who are top of the table – City will desperately need a win over the weekend.
With the game being at Elland Road, Leeds fans will have some confidence that they can pull off a result. Arsenal are the only team to beat Daniel Farke’s men at home since November, so Manchester City will not have it easy.
Dan James could be set for return to Leeds United
Farke confirmed in Friday’s press conference that Noah Okafor will miss this weekend’s game. The winger is still out after picking up a serious injury against Birmingham City in the FA Cup. Aside that, Leeds look to have an almost fully fit squad in time to play Pep Guardiola’s men.
| Competition | Games | Minutes | Goals + Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 12 | 377 | 0 |
| EFL Cup | 1 | 12 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 13 | 389 | 0 |
Okafor’s absence could see Dan James get a run out, after the Welsh international recently returned from injury. James has not really had a consistent run of games this season due to injury problems. Farke has admitted that the season has taken a toll on the winger, but when he is fit, he is one of the best attackers in the team. Last season in the Championship, he lead the charge for promotion, scoring important goals in the run in. It would be lovely to see that version of Dan James back this weekend.
READ MORE: Calvert-Lewin and James Justin respond to subtle Pep Guardiola dig ahead of Elland Road clash
Noah Okafor injury is a huge blow
Noah Okafor has been in great form for Leeds United over the last couple of games. His cameo against Chelsea a few games ago showed how important he can be to the team. When he came on against Chelsea, his pace stretched the backline and caused so many problems. He also managed to get on the scoresheet. Daniel Farke praised his consistency in training, and things looked bright only for him to pick up an injury.
Okafor will miss the game against Manchester City, which will be a huge blow. The City defence could not keep up with pace when the two sides met at the Etihad near the end of last year. Daniel Farke could have used the winger’s pace in his attack this weekend.
READ MORE: Calvert-Lewin and James Justin respond to subtle Pep Guardiola dig ahead of Elland Road clash
